How difficult is it to prepare Hilachas?

This recipe has a Intermediate difficulty level, which means it's accessible for cooks of all levels.

How long does it take to prepare Hilachas?

The preparation time is 60 minutes and the cooking time is minutes.

How many people does this recipe serve?

This recipe is designed for servings.

Can I substitute some ingredients?

Yes, many ingredients can be substituted with similar alternatives. We recommend checking the recipe variations.

How should I store this preparation?

Store the preparation in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Some preparations can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Meat • 04 de Oct de 2023

Recipe of Hilachas

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Hilachas is a traditional Guatemalan dish known for its rich and savory flavor. Tender beef is stewed in a tomato-based sauce until it shreds into delicious "rags" (hilachas). This hearty meal is often served with rice and is perfect for bringing the flavors of Guatemala to your table.

Recipe Summary

Preparation

60 min

Difficulty

Intermediate

Instructions

Step 1

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides. Remove the meat and set it aside.

Step 2

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until they become tender.

Step 3

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to break down and release their juices.

Step 4

Return the browned beef to the pot and add the tomato sauce, ground cumin, dried oregano, ground achiote seeds (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat and vegetables with the seasonings.

Step 5

Pour in the water and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 6

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and shreds easily. If needed, add more water during cooking to maintain a stew-like consistency.

Step 7

Once the beef is tender, use two forks to shred it into "hilachas" or rags.

Step 8

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 9

Serve your delicious Hilachas hot over a bed of cooked white rice. Enjoy this taste of Guatemala!

Step 10

Pro tip: You can garnish your Hilachas with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for extra flavor and freshness.