It is fascinating to learn how cultures around the globe remember their loved ones that are dead. For example, in Mexico, they build altars as a way to celebrate the deceased person. In Ecuador, the traditions are also different from other countries in the world!

First, this day is called “The Day of the Deceased” (El Día de los Difuntos.) I want to think that the chosen name for the ocassion is inspired by the reverence and respect that the Inca people had for death. This might be true since the traditional foods that are prepared for the Day of the Deceased in Ecuador have strong components of the Inca civilization.

Guaguas de Pan Recipe

 

Guaguas de Pan are sweet breads shaped into babies like figure. The Quechua word “guaga” means baby, and it you see carefully, these traditional breads resemble babies swaddled in a blanket.

This is what you’d need to make guaguas de pan:

Ingredients:

4 cups flour

4 eggs

2 teaspoons of active dry yeast

1/2 cup milk

1/3 cup sugar

2 egg yolks, for brushing

8 tablespoons butter

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/3 cup of Nutella

Preparation

Go here to find my favorite version of guaguas de pan!

COLADA MORADA

 

Colada morada is a thick drink made from purple corn, spices and fruits. It’s a tradition for The Day of the Deceased to share guaguas de pan and some colada morada with family and friends.

Below find the items that you need to make this delicious drink!

Ingredients:

1 cup purple or black corn flour

2 cups blackberries, blueberries, sliced strawberries and a pineapple,.

5  cinnamon sticks

4 whole cloves

4all spice berries

12 oz brown sugar

Go here for my favorite recipe of colada morada.