Recipe of Jocón

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds of chicken pieces (legs, thighs, and/or breasts)
• 6 green tomatoes, coarsely chopped
• 6 tomatillos, husked and coarsely chopped
• 1 onion, coarsely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green bell peppers, coarsely chopped
• 2 bunches of fresh cilantro, stems and leaves separated
• 1 bunch of fresh mint leaves
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground achiote (annatto)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. 1

   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.

2. 2

   In the same pot, add the coarsely chopped onion, minced garlic, and green bell peppers. Sauté until they become soft and translucent.

3. 3

   Add the coarsely chopped green tomatoes and tomatillos to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to break down.

4. 4

   In a blender, combine the cilantro stems, mint leaves, and 2 cups of chicken broth. Blend until you have a smooth green mixture.

5. 5

   Pour the green mixture into the pot with the vegetables. Stir in the ground achiote and ground cumin. Return the browned chicken pieces to the pot.

6. 6

   Add the remaining 2 cups of chicken broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. 7

   Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the Jocón simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

8. 8

   Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

9. 9

   Serve the Jocón hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, and accompanied by rice or tortillas. Enjoy this authentic taste of Guatemala!