The Food Ark: Guatemala - Pepian Chicken / Pepián de Pollo (Guatemalan Comfort Food)

pumpkin seeds

🥗Healthier: sunflower seeds

💰Cheaper: peanuts

Sunflower seeds are more accessible and still provide a nutty flavor.

chicken

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: chicken thighs

Turkey is leaner, while chicken thighs are often less expensive.

pork

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken is a leaner alternative, while pork shoulder is economical.

corn tortillas

🥗Healthier: whole wheat tortillas

💰Cheaper: flour tortillas

Whole wheat tortillas add fiber, while flour tortillas are often cheaper.

In a medium pot, place the chicken thighs, celery, 1 dried chili, ginger and salt. Pour in 2 cups of chicken stock, as well as enough water to sufficiently cover the chicken (approximately 3 cups). Bring to a boil and simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked.

Meanwhile, heat a large, deep, non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the tomatoes, tomatillos, onion and 3 dried chilies. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are nicely browned. With 5 minutes left, add the garlic. Remove the ingredients from the pan and set aside.

Heat a small non-stick skillet to medium-low heat and add the sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon and cloves. Toast for 2 minutes until fragrant.

In a mortar and pestle, grind the toasted spice mixture, along with the oregano and chili flakes, until smooth.

In a blender, add the tomato/tomatillo mixture, the ground spices, cilantro, salt, black pepper, toasted bread, along with 2/5 cups of the reduced chicken broth. Blend on high until well combined and orange.

Add the blended sauce to a deep skillet and pour in the olive oil and soy sauce. Taste for salt and pepper. If too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. Bring to a simmer on medium heat and add the cooked chicken and the potatoes (and chayote if you have it). Simmer for 20-30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the chicken can be pulled apart. Sprinkle with cilantro and finish with a little lime.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: