Today was official our first full day in Belize after leaving the country of Guatemala. One thing I do miss from there are the small tiendas around Antigua with a wide selection of corn chips to choose from. As someone who loves a good chip selection and my research project being related to maize in the Maya diet, it was only fitting to share my own personal ranking of Guatemalan corn chips I have come across.
The rank list is from 5th place to 1st and below I will share my own personal experience with the taste of each one and nutritional facts about how some are made.
5. TorTrix ChapiNacho Quesito Cream
TroTrix chips are an authentic staple of Guatemalan identity. They are made through a process called nixtamalization; a traditional method used to prepare corn that involves soaking dried corn kernels in limewater to improve the flavor and texture. It also helps make it more digestible compared to raw corn.
This particular one has a great shape for nachos with a nacho-like flavor with a hint of cream cheese.
4. Takis Fuego
In the U.S. we have Takis, however, this Guatemalan version is significantly different from what I am used to. The appearance of the bag is already a stark contrast with it being more skinnier and fewer number of chips. The Takis themselves are made through corn masa flour processed also with lime. The powder on these chips is less than the ones in the U.S., but are still delectable to the tongue.
3. TorTrix ChapiMix Detodito
This flavor intrigued me with how diverse the flavors were in this bag. There were no spicy chip included yet there was barbacoa, cheese. and a few more intriguing flavors! If you are a fan of Munchies, then this one is worth a try!
2. Doritos Dinamita Flamin’ Hot
This one is more on the spicier side and that is why I ranked it higher than the others. They have a good coat of chile powder and the perfect sounding crunch. My only regret is that I didn’t buy more :(.
1. Mambi El Tronchi’s Ferso
If you love lime-flavored snacks and want a solid, addicting chip…do not look any further! These chips are so good that you want to share it with everyone else to try. The crunch and size are perfectly satisfying. Just be careful not to eat the whole bag in one sitting!
Overall, this research was extremely captivating and perfect for someone who loves trying new foods. Comparing these chip flavors to U.S. options was interesting and I am excited to see what authentic chips I can try in Belize and around the world!