Traditional Guatemalan Breakfast

A classic breakfast typically includes eggs, re-fried black beans, fried plantains, avocado, fresh cheese, cream, and sometimes corn tortillas. This traditional Guatemalan breakfast is simple, hearty, and full of flavor. It brings together sweet, savory, and creamy elements in one satisfying meal!

What You’ll Need

• 1 lb black beans

• 1 dozen eggs

• 4 ripe plantains (the riper, the sweeter)

• Oil (for frying)

• ½ onion (plus extra for flavor)

• Salt (to taste)

• Optional sides: Avocado, fresh cheese (queso fresco), cream (crema), corn tortillas

How to Make It

Preparation:

Fried Plantains

1. Peel the plantains and slice them in half, then slice each piece lengthwise again.

2. Heat a pan over medium heat and coat it with oil.

3. Once hot, add the plantains.

4. Fry for about 4–5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

5. Remove and set aside.

Refried Beans

Cooking the Beans

1. Rinse the beans with warm water.

2. Add them to a pot filled with water.

3. Add ½ onion and a pinch of salt for flavor.

4. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 2 hours (until soft).

Refry the Beans

1. In a pan, heat oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add finely sliced onion and cook until golden brown (about 5 minutes).

3. Add the cooked beans (without most of the liquid save it!).

4. Mash the beans until smooth (like mashed potatoes).

5. If too dry, add a little of the reserved bean water.

6. Stir continuously until thick and creamy.

 Eggs

1. Scramble the eggs in a pan to your liking.

2. For extra flavor, add chopped tomatoes and onions while cooking.

Serving:

Plate everything together:

• Eggs

• Refried beans

• Fried plantains

Serve with:

• Avocado slices, Fresh cheese and crema, arm corn tortillas (optional but traditional)