Super Easy Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

My partner and I recently discovered the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe during our Guatemala trip. This traditional Guatemalan dish is a flavorful and satisfying culinary delight. The recipe combines tender and shredded meat, typically beef or chicken, with a rich tomato-based sauce infused with a blend of aromatic spices. The flavors are robust and well-balanced, creating a truly enjoyable dining experience.

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• 25 Super Easy Guatemalan Recipes

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One of the notable aspects of the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe is its versatility. It can be served in various ways, making it suitable for different occasions. It is commonly enjoyed as a main dish, accompanied by rice, tortillas, or even as a filling for tacos. The dish can also be personalized by adding garnishes such as chopped cilantro, onions, or a squeeze of lime for an extra touch of freshness.

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Apart from its delicious taste, the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe may offer some potential health benefits. The dish often includes a generous amount of vegetables, such as tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Additionally, the use of lean cuts of meat and the option to substitute with chicken further enhances its nutritional value.

While it’s important to note that individual ingredients and cooking methods can vary, the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe generally provides a hearty and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed by a wide range of palates. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or simply looking to explore the diverse cuisines of the world, this traditional Guatemalan dish is definitely worth trying.

How To Make Our the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

Ingredients (8 Servings)

2 pounds of beef (such as chuck roast, shredded
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tomatoes, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
2 teaspoons of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon of paprika
1/2 teaspoon of chili powder (optional, for added heat
1 cup of beef broth
1/4 cup of white vinegar
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional
Sliced radishes, for garnish (optional
Lime wedges, for serving (optional
Cooked rice or warm tortillas, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.

a Heat the oil to the right temperature for cooking.
b Ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.
c Use a sturdy pot or Dutch oven for even heat distribution.
d Warm the oil gradually to prevent splattering.
e Keep an eye on the oil to prevent burning.
f Use a wooden spoon to stir the oil for even heating.
g Test the oil’s temperature with a small piece of onion.

2. Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent.

a Finely chop the onion to ensure even cooking.
b Stir the onion occasionally to prevent burning.
c Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and fragrant.
d Adjust the heat as needed to avoid browning the onion.
e Use a spatula to evenly distribute the onion in the pot.
f Spread the onion evenly across the bottom of the pot.
g Keep stirring until the onion turns translucent.

3. Add minced garlic and diced tomatoes to the pot. Cook until tomatoes soften.

a Mince the garlic finely for better flavor distribution.
b Stir the garlic and tomatoes together to combine flavors.
c Cook until the garlic becomes aromatic.
d Allow the tomatoes to release their juices for a rich sauce.
e Keep the heat at a medium level to avoid burning the garlic.
f Ensure the tomatoes are diced uniformly for even cooking.
g Stir gently to prevent the tomatoes from breaking apart.

4. Incorporate diced green and red bell peppers into the pot. Sauté until slightly tender.

a Cut the bell peppers into evenly sized dice for consistent cooking.
b Sauté the bell peppers until they start to soften.
c Stir occasionally to prevent the peppers from sticking to the pot.
d Maintain medium heat to cook the peppers evenly.
e Ensure the pot is not overcrowded with the bell peppers.
f Use a wooden spatula to gently toss the peppers in the pot.
g Cook until the peppers become vibrant and slightly tender.

5. Stir in shredded beef, tomato paste, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, and chili powder (optional).

a Shred the beef into thin, uniform pieces for even cooking.
b Incorporate the tomato paste to add depth to the sauce.
c Measure the spices accurately to balance the flavors.
d Sprinkle the ground cumin evenly over the ingredients.
e Add dried oregano to enhance the aromatic profile.
f Mix the spices well to evenly distribute their flavors.
g Adjust the chili powder amount according to desired spiciness.

6. Pour in beef broth and white vinegar. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

a Use beef broth for added richness and depth.
b Add white vinegar to balance the flavors and acidity.
c Gradually pour in the broth to prevent splashing.
d Season the dish with salt to enhance the flavors.
e Grind black pepper over the mixture for a subtle kick.
f Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
g Stir gently to ensure even distribution of the liquid.

7. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

a Adjust the heat to a low setting for slow simmering.
b Cover the pot to trap heat and retain moisture.
c Simmering for an extended period enhances the flavors.
d Stir occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking.
e Ensure the sauce is simmering gently, not boiling rapidly.
f Keep the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
g Taste and adjust the seasoning during the simmering process.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Pots, Pan and Cooking Equipment Needed for the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

Large pot or Dutch oven: Used for sautéing and simmering the Hilachas.
Wooden spoon: Used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Spatula: Used for flipping and tossing ingredients.
Cutting board: Used for chopping and dicing vegetables.
Chef’s knife: Used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for precise ingredient measurements.
Serving dishes and utensils: Used for serving the finished Hilachas.

Best Way to Store Leftovers From the the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

a Allow the Hilachas to cool to room temperature before storing.
b Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
c Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
d Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids for storage.
e Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
f Reheat the leftovers thoroughly before consuming.
g Discard any leftovers that have been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Tips and Tricks For Easier Creation

Pre-shred the beef ahead of time for convenience.
Prep and chop all the vegetables before starting the cooking process.
Use a slow cooker for a hands-off cooking method.
Double the recipe and freeze portions for future meals.
Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less chili powder.
Experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken or pork.
Make a larger batch and invite friends and family to share the delicious meal.

Side Dishes and Desserts For the the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

White rice: Serve the Hilachas over a bed of fluffy rice.
Warm tortillas: Enjoy the Hilachas as a filling for tacos or wraps.
Fresh avocado slices: Add creamy richness to complement the flavors.
Pickled onions: Provide a tangy and refreshing contrast.
Black beans :Serve alongside for a complete and satisfying meal.
Fried plantains :Add a sweet and savory element to the plate.
Chopped lettuce :and tomatoes Create a fresh and crunchy side salad.

How To Serve the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

a Spoon the Hilachas into individual serving bowls.
b Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color.
c Serve with warm tortillas on the side.
d Provide lime wedges for a zesty citrus flavor.
e Offer sliced radishes for an added crunch.
f Set out additional condiments like hot sauce or salsa for those who desire extra heat.
g Enjoy the Guatemalan Hilachas while it’s hot and savor the delicious flavors.

Substitutions For the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

1. Vegan Option:

a Substitute beef with textured vegetable protein (TVP or tempeh.
b Replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a plant-based alternative.
c Use plant-based oil instead of vegetable oil for sautéing.
d Omit the meat entirely and increase the amount of vegetables for a hearty vegan dish.
e Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for added flavor.
f Use plant-based protein alternatives like seitan or tofu instead of meat.
g Opt for plant-based tortillas or serve the Hilachas over quinoa or cauliflower rice.

2. Gluten-Free Options: For the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

a Ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
b Substitute regular flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas or corn tortillas.
c Use gluten-free tamari or soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
d Choose gluten-free Worcestershire sauce if included in the recipe.
e Confirm that all spices and seasonings are gluten-free.
f Use a gluten-free thickener, such as cornstarch or arrowroot, instead of wheat-based thickeners.
g Check the labels of all pre-packaged ingredients for any hidden sources of gluten.

3. Vegetarian Option:

a Replace beef with meat alternatives like soy-based crumbles or TVP.
b Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
c Incorporate additional vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, for added texture and flavor.
d Substitute Worcestershire sauce with a vegetarian version or omit it altogether.
e Include plant-based protein sources like lentils or chickpeas for a satisfying vegetarian option.
f Use vegetable-based tortillas or serve the Hilachas over vegetarian-friendly grains like quinoa or brown rice.
g Double the amount of beans to compensate for the absence of meat.

4. Mediterranean Diet Options: For the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

a Incorporate more olive oil for a heart-healthy fat source.
b Use lean cuts of meat, such as lean beef or chicken breast.
c Add Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist and depth of flavor.
d Serve the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe with a side of Greek salad for a refreshing accompaniment.
e Include Mediterranean spices like oregano, thyme, and rosemary for an authentic flavor profile.
f Use whole wheat or whole grain tortillas for added fiber.
g Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to enhance the Mediterranean experience.

5. Keto Diet Options:

a Replace the beef with fatty cuts like beef brisket or short ribs.
b Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps as a substitute for traditional tortillas.
c Add high-fat ingredients like avocado or guacamole as a topping.
d Opt for full-fat cheese as a garnish or add-on.
e Include keto-friendly spices like turmeric or cayenne pepper for added flavor.
f Serve the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe with a side of cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
g Incorporate high-quality fats like grass-fed butter or ghee in the cooking process.

6. Heart-Healthy Diet Options: For the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

a Use lean cuts of meat or poultry and trim excess fat.
b Substitute beef broth with low-sodium or homemade vegetable broth.
c Incorporate heart-healthy oils like olive oil or avocado oil for sautéing.
d Serve the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
e Choose whole grain tortillas for increased fiber content.
f Limit added salt and use herbs and spices to enhance flavor instead.
g Incorporate omega-3 rich ingredients like chia seeds or walnuts for a nutritional boost.

7. Paleo Options:

a Use grass-fed beef for a more authentic paleo experience.
b Replace Worcestershire sauce with coconut aminos or tamari sauce.
c Choose paleo-friendly cooking fats like coconut oil or ghee.
d Serve the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe with paleo-friendly tortilla alternatives like lettuce wraps or coconut flour tortillas.
e Include paleo-approved seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
f Use homemade bone broth instead of store-bought beef broth.
g Top with sliced avocado or homemade guacamole for a paleo-friendly garnish.

8. Low Carb Options: For the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

a Reduce the amount of tomato paste to lower the carb content.
b Serve the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe with a side of cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
c Substitute regular tortillas with low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps.
d Choose low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added bulk.
e Use low-carb spices and seasonings to enhance flavor without adding carbs.
f Incorporate high-protein ingredients like cottage cheese or Greek yogurt as toppings.
g Avoid high-sugar condiments and opt for sugar-free or homemade alternatives.

9. Whole 30 Options:

a Use compliant beef broth without any added sugars or additives.
b Substitute regular tortillas with lettuce wraps or compliant tortilla alternatives.
c Check all spice blends for compliance, ensuring they do not contain non-compliant ingredients.
d Include fresh herbs and citrus juices to add flavor without compromising Whole30 guidelines.
e Use compliant cooking fats like ghee or avocado oil for sautéing.
f Serve the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe with a side of roasted sweet potatoes for a satisfying Whole30 option.
g Top with compliant salsas or guacamole for added taste.

10. Weight Watchers Options: For the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

a Choose lean cuts of meat to reduce the Smart Points value.
b Replace regular tortillas with low Smart Points alternatives like whole wheat or whole grain tortillas.
c Use non-stick cooking spray instead of oil for sautéing.
d Incorporate zero-point vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added volume.
e Opt for low-fat or fat-free versions of ingredients like broth or dairy products.
f Use portion control when serving to stay within Smart Points budget.
g Choose lean protein alternatives like chicken or turkey as a substitution.

11. Low Fat Options:

a Use lean cuts of meat or poultry and trim visible fat.
b Replace beef broth with low-fat or fat-free vegetable broth.
c Use non-stick cooking spray instead of oil for sautéing.
d Serve the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables instead of rice or tortillas.
e Choose low-fat or fat-free versions of ingredients like sour cream or cheese.
f Reduce the amount of high-fat toppings like avocado or guacamole.
g Incorporate flavorful herbs and spices to enhance taste without adding fat.

12. Vegetable Variations: For the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

a Replace the meat entirely with a medley of roasted or sautéed vegetables.
b Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to maintain a vegetarian variation.
c Include a variety of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini for added vibrancy.
d Incorporate mushrooms for a meaty texture and umami flavor.
e Roast the vegetables before adding them to the sauce for a caramelized depth of flavor.
f Serve the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe over a bed of mixed greens or spiralized zucchini for a light and refreshing twist.
g Top with freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley to enhance the vegetable-centric experience.

FAQ About the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe

What is the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe?
The Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe is a traditional Guatemalan dish made with shredded beef, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a blend of aromatic spices.

How long does it take to cook the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe?
The cooking time for the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the preparation and simmering time.

Can I make the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe with chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can make a variation of the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe using shredded chicken as a substitute for beef. The flavors will still be delicious and satisfying.

Are there any vegetarian options for the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe?
Yes, there are vegetarian options for the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe. You can replace the meat with textured vegetable protein (TVP or meat alternatives to create a flavorful vegetarian version.

What are some popular side dishes to serve with the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe?
Popular side dishes to serve with the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe include white rice, warm tortillas, fresh avocado slices, pickled onions, black beans, fried plantains, and chopped lettuce and tomatoes for a side salad. These options complement the flavors of the dish and provide a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

The Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe is a traditional dish that features tender shredded beef in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. With its blend of spices and aromatic ingredients, this recipe offers a rich and satisfying taste. The versatility of the dish allows for adaptations, such as using chicken or vegetarian alternatives. Alongside its delicious flavors, the Guatemalan Hilachas Recipe provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients. Whether served with rice, tortillas, or a variety of side dishes, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that showcases the culinary heritage of Guatemala.