Cuisine : Pepian - How to make this Guatemala preparation

 

Pepián is a traditional Guatemalan stew, and its preparation can vary, but here's a basic recipe:

Ingredients:

- 1 chicken, cut into pieces (or use beef, pork, or vegetables for variations)

- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

- 1/4 cup sesame seeds

- 3-4 tomatoes

- 2-3 tomatillos

- 2-3 dried guajillo or ancho chilies (soaked and deseeded)

- 2-3 cloves of garlic

- 1/2 onion

- 2-3 cloves

- 2-3 allspice berries

- 1-2 cinnamon sticks

- 1-2 bay leaves

- 4-5 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Vegetable oil for frying

- Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a dry skillet, roast the pumpkin and sesame seeds until they start to brown, then grind them into a paste.

2. In a blender, combine the roasted seeds, tomatoes, tomatillos, chilies, garlic, and onion. Blend until you have a smooth sauce.

3. In a large pot, heat some vegetable oil and brown the chicken pieces (or your choice of protein) on all sides. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same pot, add the sauce from the blender and cook it for a few minutes until it thickens.

5. Return the browned meat to the pot and add the cloves, allspice, cinnamon sticks, and bay leaves.

6. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for about 30-45 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and tender.

7. Serve the Pepián hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Pepián is often served with rice and tortillas. Remember, variations of this recipe exist, and you can adapt it to your preferences.