Fiambre Tradicional

Fiambre is a traditional Guatemalan dish prepared and enjoyed during Día de los Muertos and All Saints Day. This extravagant salad is a unique blend of various pickled and fresh vegetables, meats, cheeses, and other delicacies that can include over 50 ingredients. The tradition of Fiambre dates back to colonial times, symbolizing remembrance and sharing, beginning as a way to honor the dead with an offering of their favorite foods.

Ingredients

The beauty of Fiambre lies in its diversity of ingredients, which can vary greatly by family and region. Below is a list of common ingredients used in this remarkable dish:

• Carrots
• Cauliflower
• Green beans
• Corn
• Green peas
• Artichoke hearts
• Bell peppers
• Green olives
• Black olives
• Salami
• Chorizo
• Ham
• Chicken
• Cheese
• Coleslaw
• Lettuce
• Beets
• Eggs
• Vinegar
• Olive oil
• Oregano
• Bay leaves
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

Start by cooking the carrots, cauliflower, and green beans until tender. Blanch them in boiling water, then quickly transfer to an ice bath to halt the cooking process. This helps maintain their vibrant colors and crispness. Similarly, boil the beets separately until tender, then peel and slice them.

Step 2: Pickling

To achieve the distinct tangy flavor of Fiambre, prepare a brine with vinegar, olive oil, oregano, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Combine the cooked vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, green beans, etc., in this mixture and allow to marinate for several hours or overnight to soak in the flavors.

Step 3: Preparing the Meats

Boil the chicken with bay leaves until fully cooked, then shred or cube it as desired. The salami, chorizo, and ham should be sliced into bite-sized pieces. Opt for a mix of smoky, spicy, and mild flavors to complement the vegetables.

Step 4: Assembling the Fiambre

On a large serving platter, start by placing a bed of lettuce leaves. Layer the marinated vegetables followed by the assorted cuts of prepared salami, chorizo, ham, and chicken. Add slices of hard-boiled eggs and garnish with green olives and black olives.

Step 5: Adding Cheese and Colds

Top the assembled Fiambre with an assortment of cheese slices and a scoop of coleslaw for added texture and flavor balance.

Cooking Time

While Fiambre does not require actual cooking, adequate time must be allocated for marinating the vegetables and preparing all the diverse ingredients. It is recommended to start preparation at least one day in advance to ensure all flavors meld together beautifully, creating the iconic taste of this festive dish. Use this cooking timer to help plan effectively.

Enjoying Fiambre

Fiambre is best enjoyed surrounded by family and friends, traditionally consumed in celebratory gatherings. It serves not just as a meal but a catalyst for conversation, storytelling, and remembrance. Often accompanied by seasonal bread and a light drink, Fiambre is not just food; it is an experience steeped in history and community.

Each bite of Fiambre is a journey through rich cultural heritage and culinary artistry, reminding us of the importance of tradition and the joys of sharing among all generations.