Guatemalan Jocón

Jocón is a traditional Guatemalan stew that reflects the rich culinary heritage of the country. It originates from the highlands of Guatemala, particularly from the region of Huehuetenango. This dish is a perfect representation of Guatemalan cuisine, which is heavily influenced by Mayan traditions and uses local ingredients that have been staples for centuries.

Guatemalan Jocón is particularly unique because of its green color, derived from the blending of fresh ingredients like tomatillos, cilantro, and green onions. This stew encapsulates the vibrant flavors of the region, providing a tangy and aromatic experience for those who savor it.

Jocón Ingredients

• Chicken - 1 whole, cut into pieces
• Tomatillos - 6 medium, husked and rinsed
• Cilantro - 1 bunch, roughly chopped
• Green Onions - 4, roughly chopped
• Jalapeño Pepper - 1, seeded and chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• White Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Green Bell Pepper - 1, chopped
• Chicken Broth - 4 cups
• Corn Tortillas - 2, torn into pieces
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons

How to Prepare Jocón

Preparation Steps

1. Start by preparing the chicken. Remove any excess fat, wash it thoroughly, and cut into manageable pieces.
2. Season the chicken with salt and black pepper. Set it aside to absorb the flavors.
3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. This should take about 10 minutes.
4. Remove the browned chicken from the pot and set aside.

Creating the Green Sauce

1. In the same pot, add chopped onion, garlic, green onions, and green bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
2. Add tomatillos and the jalapeño pepper. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatillos are soft.
3. Remove the vegetable mixture from heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer everything to a blender, add the cilantro and corn tortillas, and blend until smooth. You might need to add a bit of chicken broth to help it blend well.

Cooking the Jocón

1. Return the blended green sauce to the pot and bring to a simmer. Add the remaining chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
2. Add the browned chicken pieces back to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.
3. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Use a cooking timer to track your time.
4. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper.

How to Enjoy Guatemalan Jocón

Jocón is best served hot and can be accompanied by warm corn tortillas or rice. Its vibrant green sauce pairs well with a side of black beans or a simple salad. The dish is a celebration of Guatemalan flavors, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

To fully appreciate Jocón, relish it with a glass of agua fresca or traditional atole, adding a refreshing or hearty dimension to the meal.