Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the tomato-pepper sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Gently reheat before serving.
BREAKFAST
Guatemalan Huevos Motuleños with Fried Plantains and Refried Beans
This vibrant Guatemalan breakfast features fried eggs on tortillas, smothered in a rich tomato-pepper sauce, and served alongside sweet fried plantains and savory refried beans. It's a hearty and flavorful way to start your day, offering a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced white onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
02
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, salt, and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
03
While the sauce simmers, heat 1/2 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the plantain slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and caramelized. Remove and set aside.
04
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Fry the corn tortillas for 30 seconds per side until lightly golden and pliable. Remove and set aside.
05
Fry the eggs in the same skillet to your desired doneness, typically sunny-side up or over easy, for 2-3 minutes until the whites are set and the yolks are still runny.
06
Warm the refried beans in a small saucepan over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
07
To assemble, place two fried tortillas on each plate. Top each tortilla with a fried egg, then generously spoon the tomato-pepper sauce over the eggs. Serve immediately with the fried plantains and refried beans on the side.
About This Recipe
This vibrant Guatemalan breakfast features fried eggs on tortillas, smothered in a rich tomato-pepper sauce, and served alongside sweet fried plantains and savory refried beans. It's a hearty and flavorful way to start your day, offering a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely diced jalapeño to the tomato-pepper sauce. Ensure your plantains are ripe (yellow with black spots) for optimal sweetness and texture. Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the plantains or eggs to ensure even cooking.
Easy Substitutions
You can substitute the green bell pepper with red or yellow for a slightly sweeter flavor. Black beans can be used instead of refried beans. For a vegetarian option, omit any meat products if you choose to add them to the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sauce and refried beans can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Fried plantains are best enjoyed fresh. Reheat the sauce and beans gently on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese. A side of sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream can add a creamy element. Fresh cilantro, chopped, makes a great garnish. Pair with a cup of strong Guatemalan coffee for a complete breakfast.
Common Mistakes
Overcooking the eggs: The yolks should ideally be runny to mix with the sauce. Fry them quickly over medium-high heat. Not simmering the sauce long enough: A good sauce needs time to develop flavor and thicken. Don't rush this step. Using under-ripe plantains: Green plantains will be starchy and savory, not sweet. Wait for them to ripen to yellow with black spots. Overcrowding the pan: This can lead to unevenly cooked plantains and eggs. Fry in batches if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of tortillas should I use?
Small corn tortillas are traditional for Huevos Motuleños. You can lightly fry them or warm them in a dry skillet.
Can I use canned refried beans?
Absolutely, canned refried beans are convenient and work perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure they are heated through before serving.
How do I know if a plantain is ripe?
Ripe plantains will have a yellow skin with many black spots, similar to an overripe banana. They will be soft to the touch.
MORE TO KNOW
Huevos Motuleños originated in Motul, Yucatán, Mexico, but this recipe offers a Guatemalan twist, often incorporating a slightly different spice profile and always served with the essential fried plantains and refried beans. The key to a great Huevos Motuleños is a flavorful, well-simmered sauce that complements the richness of the fried eggs and the sweetness of the plantains. Achieving the perfect runny yolk is crucial for the authentic experience, allowing it to mix with the sauce and beans.
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