A Traveler’s Guide to Eating Vegan in Guatemala
Guatemala is a northern Central American country sharing borders with Mexico, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras. From the coastline and the tropical rainforest to rich volcanic soils, the various climates produce an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables.
The delicious fruits include bananas, pineapples, dragonfruit, mangos, guanabana, jocote, papayas, and more! Guatemalan cuisine blends Mayan roots with Spanish influences, and the star ingredients include corn, rice, beans, tortillas, and plantains. The country also produces fabulous coffee and cacao, and is a major exporter of California (Hass) Avocados.
If you’re vegan and traveling to Guatemala soon, you’re in luck! That’s because there’s no shortage of vegan-friendly restaurants and cuisine. In fact, many traditional dishes can be made vegan, especially in the touristy parts of the country like Lake Atitlán, Antigua, and Guatemala City. And, the local markets are stocked with vibrant, fresh produce.
Come along with us in this Naturally Smart Travel guide to eating vegan in Guatemala. There are so many options from tasty treats and savory meals to refreshing juices and mid-morning snacks. Whether you’re a full-blown foodie or just looking for a quick bite before embarking on adventures, this guide’s got you covered!
Vegan Food in Guatemala
If you eat a plant-based diet, Guatemalan cuisine offers delectable choices. We’re looking at you: Rellenitos. These sweet plantain fritters are filled with black beans and spiced with cinnamon, making a popular vegan treat.
Be sure to order Pupusas, these thick corn tortillas are filled with beans and vegetables. And you won’t want to miss out on trying the vegan version of Hilachas, a flavorful shredded beef substitute, made from potatoes and served with a tomato-based sauce over warm rice. It’s a mouthwatering option for the vegan crowd. There’s some many scrumptious vegan dishes to try in Guatemala, keep reading to discover more tasty bites for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Vegan Breakfast Options
They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day so if you’re craving substantial brain food to jumpstart the day, look no further than these tasty local dishes!
Desayuno Chapin - This typical Guatemalan breakfast dish can be made vegan by subbing out the eggs for tofu. Start your day on the savory side with a plate of plantain, black beans, and tortillas. It pairs perfectly with a cup of locally roasted coffee and fresh fruit.
Mosh - A great breakfast beverage that’s made with cinnamon, sugar, and oatmeal. Substitute plant-based milk for a vegan version.
Atol Blanco con Palitos - Served in a bowl and eaten with a spoon, this thick beverage is made from corn. Add scrumptious toppings like pumpkin seeds, salt, black beans, or palitos (crunchy cornsticks).
Tamales, Tamales & More Tamales
Corn is the king ingredient in Guatemala and traditional tamales are made with ground maize, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed to perfection. Expect mouthwatering bites stuffed with different ingredients like capers, olives, almonds, or fresh tomatoes topped off with fresh salsas. Tamales are a must-try!
In Guatemala, you’ll find countless variations of tamales, and the masa (dough) can be made from corn, potatoes, or rice. From stuffed and wrapped to steamed, the size, fillings, and cooking methods will vary. There are plenty of different flavor combinations and styles. Try them all, and find your favorite.
Tamalitos - Small steamed tamales made from corn masa with a plainer taste as they aren’t stuffed with ingredients. They’re perfect for dipping into soups or eating with beans.
Tamales de Frijoles - Simple and savory bean tamales filled with black beans, onions, and chiles.
Tamales de Cambray - These tamales are popular during Christmas and New Year often made with veggies, nuts, and sometimes fruit.
Tamales Colorados - These red tamales get their distinctive color from annatto (red chili sauce) for a vegan rendition opt for the veggie stuffing.
Tamales de Pipián - The distinct nutty flavor of these tamales comes from the pipián sauce, made from a blend of sesame, pumpkin seeds, and chiles.
Tamales de Elote - Corn tamales with a mixture of sugar and sometimes cinnamon or vanilla. This sweet bite is ideal for a snack or as a dessert.
Tamales de Arroz - Rice-based tamales with different mixtures, opt for the veggies for the vegan version.
Tamales de Verdures - These veggie tamales are stuffed with various vegetables like peas, carrots, and potatoes.
Vegan Guatemalan Street Food
There are delicious vegan options when it comes to Guatelaman street food. Be sure to check with vendors for sneaky animal-based ingredients such as dairy in sauces or cheese fillings. But, you’ll find customizable vegan versions to enjoy throughout the country.
Tostadas - Crispy corn tortillas topped with fresh items including black beans, onions, guacamole, tomato sauce, carrots, and more.
Chuchitos - A smaller version of tamales with a firmer consistency, served with tomato salsa.
Elote - Street corn at its best, freshly roasted with toppings like fresh lime and chili powder. Top it how you want, think: hot sauce, ketchup, mustard & more.
Pupusas - Corn tortillas stuffed with various ingredients accompanied by a tomato-based sauce. For vegan variations opt for squash and refried beans.
Chile Relleno - Peppers or chiles stuffed with a delectable mixture of beans, spices, and veggies. This goodness is topped with sauce and served with a hearty side of rice.
Taquitos - Stuffed and fried tortillas.
Tortillas con Frijol y Guacamole - Corn tortillas served hot with black beans and guacamole.
Vegan Versions of Guatemalan Traditional Dishes
Guatemalan cuisine varies by region, season, and local ingredients. And, even the traditional Guatemalan dishes have regional variations. While animal products are in many dishes, here are some of the not-to-miss traditional Guatemalan dishes, but vegan!
Kak’ik - Mayan soup with aromatic spices like cilantro, achiote, and coriander seeds. It’s traditionally made with turkey but the vegan versions can include soy-based products and vegan cheese.
Sopa de Frijoles - This black bean soup is smooth, creamy, delicious, and ideal for cooler days.
Pepián - This iconic Guatemalan dish is traditionally made with chicken but vegan options are available. This hearty stew features a blend of spices and is served with rice and corn tortillas.
Hilachas - This flavorful shredded beef substitute is made from potatoes, and served with a tomato-based sauce and rice.
Enchiladas - Unlike the Mexican version, the Guatemalan style has beets, carrots, and peas with a mixture of herbs and spices.
Arroz Con Frijoles - Rice and beans are a vegan-friendly staple dish in Guatemala and go perfectly with a side of freshly made corn tortillas.
Jocón - A green stew featuring cilantro, tomatillos, bell pepper, and green onions. This comfort food is often seasoned with pumpkin seeds and toasted sesame. Tofu and veggies make delicious toppings.
Vegan Sweet Treats
For those with a sweet tooth, there are tons of tasty treats but here are a couple of our favorites.
Rellenitos de Plátano - This traditional sweet dessert is a great way to end a meal. Mashed plantain, black beans, sugar, and cinnamon all work together in perfect harmony in these deep-fried sugary morsels.
Fruit Cups - Sliced seasonal fruit is an abundant snack and is readily available all over Guatemala. Eat it fresh or top it with seasoned local spices like “pepitoria” toasted pumpkin seeds, salt, and lime juice. Or, order it hot with a little tajin - chile, lime, and salt for a nice kick.
Mole de Plátano - Fried plantains are delicious, especially when dipped in a side of chocolate sauce. Make it savory with a little tomato sauce.
Chocolate Caliente - Mayan traditional cacao is warmed up with sugar and plant-based milk in Guatemalan hot chocolate. This decadent drink was considered the food of the gods to the ancient Mayans.
Licuado - Fresh fruit and plant-based milk create a refreshing drink somewhere in between a juice and a smoothie.
Enjoy Vegan Cuisine While Traveling in Guatemala
Eat well without compromising your plant-based diet while traveling through the Land of Eternal Spring. The abundance of fresh fruits and produce means vegan dishes are easy to come by. From street food and sweet snacks to savory traditional cuisines, there’s plenty to indulge in while taking in the sights, colors, and sounds of this beautiful country. Join us on a curated food tour, or get in touch if you have any questions about traveling to Guatemala!
