Guatemalan Pepian

itsmepat

Novice Foodie
3.-Guatemalan-Pepian-de-Pollo-Recipe.jpg



I recently tried making Guatemalan Pepian, and it was an absolutely flavorful and heartwarming experience! This traditional stew combines a rich blend of spices with tender chicken and vegetables, creating a truly comforting dish. Here's how you can bring a taste of Guatemala to your own kitchen with this Pepian recipe:

Ingredients:​

For the Stew:​

  • 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
  • 1/4 cup sesame seeds
  • 1 dried guajillo chili (or substitute with another mild dried chili)
  • 1 dried pasilla chili (or substitute with another mild dried chili)
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 3-4 whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 2 large carrots, sliced
  • 2 potatoes, cubed
  • 1/2 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving:​

  • Cooked rice
  • Fresh corn tortillas

Instructions:​

1. Prepare the Ingredients:​

  • Toast the pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Toast the dried chilies, cinnamon stick, cloves, and black peppercorns in the same skillet until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
  • In a blender or food processor, combine the toasted seeds and spices, tomatoes, and half of the chopped onion. Blend until smooth, adding a little water if necessary to form a paste.

2. Cook the Chicken:​

  • Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce:​

  • In the same pot, add the remaining chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the tomato and spice paste to the pot and cook for a few minutes until the flavors meld together.

4. Simmer the Stew:​

  • Return the browned chicken to the pot, and add the chicken broth, carrots, potatoes, and green beans.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

5. Finish the Dish:​

  • Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
  • Let the stew simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve:​

  • Serve the Pepian hot with cooked rice and fresh corn tortillas on the side. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

Conclusion​

Guatemalan Pepian is a wonderfully rich and aromatic stew that perfectly balances spices and hearty ingredients. This traditional dish offers a taste of Guatemalan cuisine that's sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy this delicious stew with your loved ones for a truly memorable meal! 🇬🇹🍲✨
 
Guatemalan Pepian is a rich, flavorful stew with a perfect blend of roasted tomatoes, chilies, and spices, creating a hearty and comforting dish!
 
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