Spicy Guatemalan Pepian de Res with Pumpkin Seeds
A traditional Guatemalan beef stew with a spicy, nutty twist
A hearty and flavorful dish, Pepian de Res is a Guatemalan classic! This peppery stew is enriched with the nutty taste of pumpkin seeds, creating a rich, comforting meal.
- 3 h 30 min
- 6
- Intermediate
Ingredients
For the Beef & Marinade
For the Pepian Sauce
For the Aromatics
Preparation
Marinating the Beef
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the beef chunks with garlic, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
Coat the Beef
Toss well to coat the beef thoroughly.
Refrigerate
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preparing the Pepian Sauce
Toast Pumpkin Seeds
In a dry skillet, toast pumpkin seeds until golden and aromatic.
Ensure all seeds and spices are toasted; raw seeds may have a bitter taste.
Toast Chilies
Toast guajillo and ancho chilies briefly until they puff up slightly.
Blend the Sauce
Blend the toasted seeds, chilies, tomatoes, onion, annatto seeds, cumin, and cinnamon with chicken broth until smooth.
Strain the blended sauce for a smoother finish.
Cooking Process
Sear the Beef
Heat the oil in a large pot and brown the beef on all sides.
Build the Flavor Base
Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and thyme to the pot, followed by the Pepian sauce.
Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until beef is tender, approximately 1.5 hours.
Plating & Serving
Spicy Guatemalan Pepian de Res with Pumpkin Seeds
Spicy Guatemalan Pepian de Res with Pumpkin Seeds
Serve
Spoon the Pepian de Res over a generous serving of steamed rice, allowing the thick sauce to spread beautifully over the plate.