Hilachas

Spain's nearly 300-year colonial rule (1540-1821) had a massive influence on the country, particularly on its cuisine. Hilachas, or the Guatemalan version of shredded beef stew, is one of its delectable gifts, with shredded beef simmered in a lightly spiced velvety sauce with tender potato cuts. Hilachas literally translates to "threads," which describes the appearance of the beef, which has been shredded into thin strips.

Hilachas, which have their origins in colonial Spain, are very similar to the Cuban dish ropa vieja. Ropa vieja, which is also made of shredded beef and vegetables, looks like a pile of colorful rags, which is where the translation "old clothes" comes from.

Hilachas, like most traditional Guatemalan dishes, has evolved to include popular variations such as carrots, chayote squash, cloves, cinnamon, fresh green beans, and tomatillos. If you intend to travel to Guatemala, this meal is one of the must-try dishes.