Mayan recipe: Pipian Verde (Pumpkin Seed Sauce)

In the bustling markets, amid the chatter and barter, pumpkin seeds were highly prized. A renowned cook once ground these seeds, adding green tomatoes and fiery serrano peppers to create Pipian Verde. This rich, nutty sauce graced many Mayan dishes, symbolizing the fusion of the earth and sun's powers.

• 1 cup pumpkin seeds
• 4 green tomatoes or tomatillos
• 2 serrano peppers (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• Salt to taste

1. In a dry skillet, toast the pumpkin seeds over medium heat until they start to pop. Let them cool, then blend into a coarse paste.
2. Roast green tomatoes or tomatillos and serrano peppers on a hot skillet until charred. Blend them into a smooth sauce.
3. In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion until golden brown.
4. Combine the pumpkin seed paste with the green tomato sauce, add the sautéed garlic and onion. Season with salt.
5. Cook the sauce over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Serve the sauce over steamed vegetables or as a condiment with corn tortillas.