Let’s journey to Guatemala to learn about one of its most famous national dishes, Pepián. Pepián is a hearty, flavorful stew that beautifully combines the country’s Mayan and Spanish influences into a tasty dish. It typically includes roasted spices, seeds, and vegetables, and often features chicken, pork, or beef.
Pepián dates back to the pre-Columbian era and is closely tied to the culinary heritage of the ancient Maya civilization. Over time, it has developed by combining native ingredients and cooking methods with those brought by Spanish colonizers.
Pepián is commonly regarded as a symbol of Guatemalan identity. It holds a key place in significant celebrations such as weddings, birthdays, and festivals, acting as a centerpiece for community gatherings. In Guatemalan culture, sharing Pepián demonstrates hospitality and warmth.
Let’s Cook
Guatemalan Pepián usually features chicken, beef, or pork, along with tomatoes, tomatillos, onions, garlic, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, dried chilies, cinnamon, and spices such as cloves, allspice, and coriander. Other ingredients might include cilantro, potatoes, carrots, green beans, and chayote.
There are many recipes for Pepián online. Here are two:
https://en.recetas-guatemala.com/recetas/main-dish/guatemalan-pepian
https://www.tastesfromtheroad.com/post/pepian-from-guatemala
Let’s Learn about Guatemala
Guatemala is in Central America and borders Mexico to the north and west, the Caribbean Sea to the east, Honduras to the southeast, and El Salvador to the south. It features mountainous terrain, with the Sierra Madre mountain range running through it. The climate is tropical, but it can differ significantly between regions because of its varied elevations. Coastal areas are typically hot and humid, while the highlands are cooler with a more temperate climate.
Guatemala is recognized as the heartland of the ancient Maya civilization. Cities like Tikal and Quiriguá are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that highlight the impressive architectural, astronomical, and artistic accomplishments of the Maya.
Spanish is Guatemala’s official language, but the country also has over 20 indigenous languages, such as K’iche’, Q’eqchi’, and Mam. Around 40% of people speak an indigenous language, reflecting Guatemala’s diverse cultural heritage.
The Three Little Howlers
Pepián is featured in The Three Little Howlers, a charming retelling of the Three Little Pigs set in Central America’s rainforest, including Guatemala. It is available in both English and 20 bilingual editions. This multicultural book includes free lesson plans, extension activities, and audio. It is also part of the 4 Book Storybook Set with Teaching Resources and the World of Stories Collection, which also features The Three Little Sun Bears.