Home is where the heart is. And my heart? It’s where the food is.
Unlike the typical American household, we didn’t grow up on casseroles or burgers. Every meal in our home was Hispanic cuisine—Guatemalan foods specifically. It wasn’t just what we ate, it was how we stayed connected to where we came from.
Now that I have my own home, I have carried these recipes with me. Beyond a basic need—these meals are memories, comfort, and tiny love letters passed through generations.
Fritas de Banano
Think banana pancake meets beignet. They are made by mashing up bananas, mixing in eggs and flour, and frying them until golden. Literal bites of heaven. You can enjoy them with a sprinkle of sugar or, if you want fiesta of flavor, pair it with frijoles fritos (refried beans) and sour cream. Thank me later.
Enchiladas Gautemaltecas
When most people hear enchiladas, they probably don’t picture the above. Most likely, you are familiar with the baked, sauce covered Mexican enchilada. Don’t get me wrong—I love those. But these mountains of glory deserve their own feature.
Built on a crispy tostada, they’re stacked with lettuce, ground meat, pickled purple cabbage, red salsa, raw onions, a slice of boiled egg, cilantro, and queso seco. Besides tamales, these are a go-to for family celebrations. And they never get old.
Caldo De Res
Growing up, we had this soup at least twice a month. Back then I was so tired of it. Now? I crave this soup monthly. Caldo de Res is true comfort in a bowl. It’s made with cabbage, corn, squash, carrots, potatoes, and tender meat simmered in a rich bone broth. Top it with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and always—always—serve it with warm corn tortillas. Rice is optional, but highly recommended.
Pan Con Cafe
This is more than a snack, it’s a ritual. I’ve been drinking coffee as long as I can remember. And while I love my cold brew, absolutely nothing can compare to the simple delight of cafe con pan. My favorite time to enjoy this is usually in the late evening, after dinner, when the house feels quiet and warm.
It’s simple: black coffee and your sweet bread of choice dipped right in the cup. Don’t knock it till you try it.
These foods are how I stay connected to my family, my culture, and my childhood. Even as I build my own path, I always carry a little piece of home with me.
What are your favorite comfort foods from your culture? I’d love to hear yours!
Cultura and Clarity 
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