Growing up Bilingual

2 weeks ago | growingupbilingual.com | Paula Bendfeldt-Diaz

If you’re wondering what people eat during Semana Santa in Guatemala, this guide will walk you through the most delicious and meaningful dishes of the season. I’ll be sharing the most traditional Guatemalan Semana Santa foods, the cultural stories behind them, and recipes you can try at home. From torrejas and bacalao to empanadas de manjar and garbanzos en miel, food plays a huge role in Guatemalan Holy Week—and for many of us who grew up here, it’s how we remember this time of year most vividly.

2 weeks ago | growingupbilingual.com | Paula Bendfeldt-Diaz

Guatemalan sopa de frijol (black bean soup) is one of those hearty, comforting dishes that always makes me feel at home. This traditional Guatemalan black bean soup is made with black beans, roasted vegetables, and chiles, giving it a rich, smoky flavor and a thicker consistency compared to regular caldo de frijol. What makes it stand out is the way the roasted tomatoes, garlic, and chiles come together to create a deep, flavorful broth that’s both satisfying and full of character.

2 weeks ago | growingupbilingual.com | Paula Bendfeldt-Diaz

Higos en Dulce, also known as higos en Miel, are a traditional Guatemalan dessert made by simmering figs in a sweet, spiced syrup until they become tender and perfectly coated. I love how the figs stay firm and slightly chewy, thanks to soaking them in lime (cal) water before cooking. It’s one of those desserts that I always crave, especially when I want something comforting and familiar. Honestly, I didn’t always know the trick to keeping the figs from turning to mush.

2 weeks ago | growingupbilingual.com | Paula Bendfeldt-Diaz

Pastel de Elote, also known as Pan de Elote, is a traditional Guatemalan dessert made with sweet corn and condensed milk. This delicious corn cake is much sweeter and moister than the traditional Mexican pan de elote or cornbread, making it a favorite treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Unlike its Mexican counterpart, which is often served as a side dish, Guatemalan pastel de elote is typically enjoyed as a dessert or as a refacción (snack), paired with a warm cup of Guatemalan coffee.

3 weeks ago | growingupbilingual.com | Paula Bendfeldt-Diaz

If you’re looking for a charming and laid-back place to relax after exploring ancient Maya ruins, Flores, Guatemala, is the perfect spot. This little island town in the middle of Lake Petén Itzá is one of my favorite places in Guatemala. I’ve been visiting Flores since I was a kid, and I still get excited every time I come back. Just last year, I took my whole family there, and we had such a great time wandering the colorful streets, eating delicious food, and soaking in those amazing sunsets.