Food in Belize

Belize, a vibrant country located on the eastern coast of Central America, beckons travelers with its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and a melting pot of cultures that is vividly reflected in its cuisine. Belizean food is an eclectic mix of Maya, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, offering a gastronomic adventure to visitors eager to savor local flavors. From mouthwatering seafood dishes to hearty inland meals, there's a variety of culinary experiences to explore. Discover the must-try Belizean dishes that will make your trip an unforgettable journey through taste.

Belizean Dishes

Rice and Beans

Rice and Beans is the quintessential Belizean dish, often considered the national dish of Belize. It is traditionally cooked with coconut milk and served with a variety of sides such as fried plantains, coleslaw, and a choice of protein like stewed chicken, beef, or fish. The dish is seasoned with local spices and herbs, making it a hearty and flavorful meal.

Stewed Chicken

Stewed Chicken is a staple in Belizean cuisine. The chicken is marinated in a rich blend of spices, including recado rojo (a special achiote paste), and then slow-cooked until tender. It's usually accompanied by rice and beans or served with corn tortillas for a satisfying comfort meal.

Conch Fritters

Conch Fritters are a popular Belizean snack, especially in the coastal areas. Conch meat is diced and mixed into a batter with flour, eggs, and local seasonings, then deep-fried until golden brown. These fritters are often served with a zesty dipping sauce.

Ceviche

Belizean ceviche is a refreshing mix of raw fish or seafood such as shrimp, conch, or lobster, marinated in lime juice with chopped onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and peppers. It's a cool and tangy dish that's especially enjoyable in the tropical climate.

Garnaches

Garnaches are a popular street food in Belize. They consist of fried corn tortillas topped with beans, shredded cabbage, cheese, and a spicy tomato sauce. They are small, crispy, and perfect for eating on the go.

Salbutes

Similar to garnaches, Salbutes are another beloved street food. They are puffed-up fried tortillas topped with chicken, cabbage, tomato, avocado, and pickled onions. The topping combinations may vary, but they are always flavorful and satisfying.

Hudut

Hudut is a traditional Garifuna dish made with mashed plantains and a coconut fish stew. The plantains are boiled and then pounded into a thick, dough-like consistency. This is then served with a rich and spicy coconut broth containing fish or other seafood, seasoned with garlic, onions, and other spices.

Escabeche

Escabeche, or onion soup, is a unique Belizean dish with a Spanish influence. It's made with chicken, marinated in vinegar and seasoned with black pepper, allspice, and cloves. The soup is filled with a generous amount of onions, giving it a distinct sweet and sour flavor.

Tamales

Tamales in Belize are a bit different from their Mexican counterparts. They are traditionally wrapped in plantain leaves rather than corn husks and can be filled with chicken, pork, or beans. The masa (dough) is made from corn and is steamed until cooked, resulting in a soft, flavorful package of goodness.

Belizean Desserts

Johnny Cakes

Johnny Cakes are a traditional Belizean breakfast or snack. They are essentially small bread cakes made from flour, baking powder, shortening, and coconut milk, and are often served with cheese or beans. They can be either baked or fried, depending on the recipe.

Cassava Pudding

Cassava Pudding, also known as plastic pudding, is a dense, sweet dessert made from grated cassava, sugar, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. The mixture is baked until it has a chewy, almost rubbery texture. It's a unique treat with a rich cultural heritage.

Coconut Tart

Coconut Tart is a sweet pastry filled with a mixture of coconut, sugar, and spices. The filling is encased in a flaky shortcrust pastry and baked to golden perfection. It's a delightful dessert that perfectly showcases the tropical flavor of coconut.

Sweet Potato Pudding

Sweet Potato Pudding is a comforting Belizean dessert made from grated sweet potatoes mixed with raisins, coconut milk, sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It is then baked until set and can be enjoyed either warm or cold.

Black Fruit Cake

Often reserved for special occasions like Christmas, Belizean Black Fruit Cake is a rich, dark cake made with rum-soaked dried fruits, brown sugar, and caramel. It's similar to British-style fruitcakes but with a distinctively Belizean twist thanks to the addition of local spices and rum.