A dazzling new international cookbook with 132 recipes from the bestselling author of the award-winning book, Amalia’s Guatemalan Kitchen

new international cookbook Amalia's Kitchen

“This book oozes tradition and authenticity with updated twists.” —Chef Gale Gand, author, teacher, TV personality In the highly anticipated sequel to her first Central American cookbook, Amalia Moreno-Damgaard goes beyond borders to explore modern takes on ancient Latin American recipes. Mesoamerica —or Middle America —has a rich history dating back to the Olmec, Maya and Aztec empires, and early […]

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Amalia’s Kitchen ¡Viva la Tortilla!

Amalia's Kitchen ¡Viva la Tortilla!

A great way to enhance any menu is to include the versatile and delicious tortilla. The corn tortilla dates back to pre-Columbian times and continues to make culinary history as it passes from generation to generation. As the “bread” of the southern region of North America (Mexico, Guatemala, and other Central American countries), it is a unifying force that feeds […]

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Traditional Guatemalan Food, what and when to them, Recipes included

Traditional Guatemalan Food

Guatemala has an extraordinary culinary tradition as it brings together a mixture of Spanish and Maya cultures. Dishes are elaborated with complex recipes and ingredients — some are prepared days in advance. Guatemalan cuisine has also its own protocol, some dishes are served only once a year, some others can’t miss a Sunday or a family party, and some are […]

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Latino diversity is beyond skin deep

Latino diversity is beyond skin deep

Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States is celebrated each year from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. This is an opportunity to highlight and commemorate the contributions that American Latinos have made to the country throughout history. As the Latino demographic has grown to nearly 18 percent ($57 million) of the entire population, the movement toward making diversity a priority […]

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What is plant-based Food?

What is plant-based Food?

There is a trend that started some time ago which has picked up speed and is projected to continue to grow in the coming years. Plant-based foods is nothing new, however, dietary concerns, personal preferences, cultural traditions, financial gain, and even the environment are in great part fueling this growth. People with food allergies, sensitivity, intolerances, and personal preferences have […]

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On Mother’s Day Sharing is Caring

On Mother's Day Sharing is Caring

Mother’s Day in Guatemala and a few other Central American countries is always on May 10 as opposed to different days in other countries. It is an ancient Christian celebration also celebrated by the Greeks and Romans. In modern times, this day celebrates all women who have played the role of a nurturing and good role model for any child […]

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A Weakness for Chocolate

A Weakness for Chocolate

I don’t have a sweet tooth per se, but I must admit that I have a weakness for chocolate because it’s not only delicious, it’s nutritious, too. And, it just may be the perfect treat for Valentine’s. Chocolate has boundless possibilities in the kitchen, and recently I developed something new and unique for a special presentation during Valentine’s week in […]

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Guatemalan Kitchen Camaraderie

Guatemalan kitchen camaraderie

Guatemalan kitchen camaraderie with “mucho sabor” and comfort Perhaps one of the best ways to bond with anyone is in the kitchen. After all, this is a place where people gather to create delicious masterpieces and share experiences. I was invited once again to present at the World of the Latino Cuisine in New Jersey recently. This is an annual […]

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Guatemalan Gluten-Free Cuisine

Guatemalan Gluten-Free Cuisine

Prior to the arrival of the Spaniards, Latin cuisine was, for the most part, all gluten-free. This is still true to this day. As a professional chef, I routinely customize menus to the dietary needs and tastes of family, friends, and clients. As a Guatemalan, this comes easily to me. “Celiac disease is a serious autoimmune disorder that can occur […]

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Eating Healthier to Prevent a 21st Century Epidemic – Amalia’s Kitchen

Eating healthy to prevent A 21st Century Epidemic

Type 2 diabetes is a 21st century epidemic – the one that can be prevented through healthy eating education. Growing up in Guatemala taught me good eating habits for life. After all, fruits and vegetables, plentiful and wide-ranging, grow naturally in fertile soil under the Guatemalan sun. Home- cooked meals are inherently balanced, containing plenty of locally grown crops. Having […]

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The Magic Of Aromatic Herbs

The Magic Of Aromatic Herbs

I call vegetables the stars of my kitchen and aromatic herbs (and spices), superstars because they elevate a dish to a higher level, both in flavor, aroma and eye appeal. Imagine a caldo de res (beef soup) or a kaq ik (turkey soup from Coban) without aromatic herbs and vegetables. A typical caldo de res contains anywhere from 5-15 ingredients […]

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Guatemalan Cheeses

Guatemalan Cheeses

Behold the power of cheese! There’s a reason for this: Cheese can seduce the most discriminating tastes, and Guatemalan cheeses rise to the challenge in any kitchen. There are many styles and methods of making cheese, however, Guatemalan artisan cheeses are the country’s favorites. When was the last time that you tried a queso fresco (fresh cheese)? In contrast to […]

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Teaching Traditional Guatemalan Cuisine

Mayan cuisine Guatemala

Visitors curious about traditional Mayan cuisine should add the Ixiim Cooking School to their to-do list. San Pedro La Laguna, situated on the shores of Lake Atitlán, is a popular destination featuring dramatic scenery, breathtaking hiking trails and waterfalls, numerous yoga centers, Spanish schools and lively nightlife. Visitors curious about traditional Mayan cuisine should add the Ixiim Cooking School to […]

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