Food

Thanks to an interesting history, Guatemala has a very eclectic cuisine. The food of Guatemala has been influenced over the years by the Mayans, Spanish rule, and the modern Republic. These influences can be seen in the variety of dishes served through out the country. While Guatemala doesn’t have a national dish, there area number of food items that have become staples in almost every dish.

As with many of the Americas, rice and beans are one of those staple foods found in just about any dish. Thanks to the Mayans, corn based items such as tortillas have found there way into many dishes as well. Other item such as eggs, cheese and potatoes are widely consumed.

The Best Local Drink

Guatemala Coffee – While not exactly a food, the coffee in Guatemala is certainly worth mentioning. Most of the coffee found in Guatemala is exported out, and with good reason, it is considered to be some of the best coffee in the world. Oddly enough, Guatemalans don’t like strong coffee. They tend to make very weak coffee and add loads of milk and sugar. For real taste of the coffee you will either have to make it yourself or visit some of the more touristy areas.

Fruit Juices – Next to the coffee, the juices here are some of the best around. This probably has something to do with all of them being made from fresh fruit right before your eyes. At most restaurants you can have your fruit of choice served with milk or water. Both of these choices are amazing and you will undoubtedly order several over the course of your meal.

Quetzalteca – This is the local liquor. It is very potent stuff and made from raw sugar cane.

The Best Local Drink

Tamales – There are probably hundreds of different varieties of tamales across the country. These local tamales are probably the closest thing you’ll come to finding a national dish. There are a number of things that make tamales unique from what they are wrapped in to what they are stuffed in. Typically the tortilla dough is made out of corn, potatoes, or rice. Stuffing’s can include meats, fruits, nuts, and just about anything else you can think of.