31 Easy Belizean Recipes And Food From Belize In 2024 (2024)

Once you arrive, there is no need to be hesitant about trying the food from Belize. The delicious mixture of different cultural influences means that Belizean foods are home to a mouth-watering assortment of fresh fruit, seafood, Caribbean classics, and plenty of appetizing treats that are sure to please even the pickiest eater. NOTE: Most of the Caribbean countries have the same recipes for dishes, they just use different names for them.

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Our 31 Easy Belizean Food Recipes Made From The Abundant Supply of Food From Belize

1. Traditional Rice and Beans

Belize Rice and Beans is a traditional and flavorful dish that is a staple in Belizean cuisine. It combines red kidney beans, rice, and a medley of herbs and spices like garlic, onion, thyme, and coconut milk. The dish is often cooked together, allowing the rice to absorb the rich flavors of the beans and seasonings. Belize Rice and Beans is commonly served as a main course alongside other dishes like stewed chicken, plantains, and coleslaw, creating a delicious and satisfying Belizean meal.

2. Stewed Chicken

Belize Stewed Chicken is a dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Belizean cuisine. Chicken pieces are marinated in a flavorful blend of spices such as garlic, onion, allspice, and thyme. The marinated chicken is then browned and simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce until tender and infused with the aromatic flavors. Belize Stewed Chicken is often served with rice, beans, and a side of coleslaw, providing a hearty and delicious meal that captures the essence of Belizean culinary traditions.

3. Boil Up

Belize Boil Up is a traditional and hearty dish that is a favorite in Belizean cuisine. It consists of a flavorful broth made by simmering various ingredients such as pig tail, cassava, plantains, sweet potatoes, and other root vegetables. The ingredients are cooked together until tender and infused with the rich flavors of the broth. Belize Boil Up is often enjoyed as a one-pot meal, providing a comforting and satisfying culinary experience that showcases the diverse flavors of Belize.

4. Salbutes – Fried Puffed Corn Tortillas

Belize Salbutes are a delicious and popular street food in Belizean cuisine. They are made from corn tortillas that are deep-fried until they puff up, creating a crispy and light texture. The fried tortillas are then topped with a variety of flavorful ingredients such as shredded chicken, refried beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cheese, and a drizzle of tangy sauce. Belize Salbutes are often enjoyed as a handheld snack or appetizer, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

5. Pork Tamales

Belize Pork Tamales are a traditional and savory dish in Belizean cuisine. The recipe involves a process of preparing a flavorful masa dough made from ground corn, seasoned with spices, and mixed with a seasoned pork filling. The dough and filling are wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until cooked through. The result is a tender and moist tamale with a delicious blend of flavors. Belize Pork Tamales are often enjoyed as a hearty meal or festive treat, showcasing the culinary heritage of Belize.

6. Belizean Ceviche

Belize Ceviche is a refreshing and tangy seafood dish that is popular in Belizean cuisine. It typically features fresh fish, such as snapper or grouper, marinated in lime or lemon juice along with a medley of diced vegetables like onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers. The acidity of the citrus juice “cooks” the fish, resulting in a tender and flavorful texture. Belize Ceviche is often seasoned with herbs, spices, and a touch of heat from habanero peppers, offering a vibrant and delicious appetizer or light meal option.

7. Cochinita Pibil

Belize Cochinita Pibil is a mouthwatering and flavorful dish that originates from the Yucatan region of Mexico and is popular in Belizean cuisine. It involves marinating pork in a tangy and aromatic blend of citrus juices, annatto paste, garlic, and spices. The marinated pork is then wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked until tender and infused with the vibrant flavors. Belize Cochinita Pibil is often served with tortillas and accompanied by pickled onions and habanero salsa, creating a delicious and satisfying meal with a hint of spice.

8. Belizean Garnaches

Belizean Garnaches are a tasty and popular snack in Belizean cuisine. They consist of small, crispy fried tortillas topped with refried beans, grated cheese, pickled onions, and often accompanied by a hot sauce. The tortillas provide a crunchy base while the combination of beans, cheese, and tangy onions creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Belizean Garnaches are enjoyed as a quick and satisfying appetizer or snack, showcasing the vibrant and delicious tastes of Belizean street food.

9. Belize Fry Jacks

Belize Fry Jacks are a delightful breakfast treat in Belizean cuisine. These fluffy and golden fried dough pieces are made by combining flour, baking powder, salt, and water to create a soft dough. The dough is then rolled out and fried until puffy and lightly browned. Belize Fry Jacks are typically served with various accompaniments such as beans, cheese, eggs, or even honey. They are a delicious and versatile breakfast option, enjoyed for their crispy exterior and pillowy interior.

10. Belizean Chilmole

Belizean Chilmole, also known as Black Recado or Black Soup, is a traditional dish with Mayan roots in Belizean cuisine. It is a rich and flavorful stew made with blackened spices, annatto seeds, garlic, onions, and various herbs. The stew is often prepared with chicken or pork, slow-cooked until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together. Belizean Chilmole offers a unique and robust taste, reflecting the cultural heritage and culinary traditions of Belize.

11. Johnny Cake

Belize Johnny Cake is a delicious and popular baked treat in Belizean cuisine. It is made with a simple dough consisting of flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and butter or shortening. The dough is mixed until it forms a smooth consistency, then shaped into individual cakes and baked until golden and lightly crispy on the outside, while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. Belize Johnny Cake is often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack, perfect for spreading with butter or jam.

12. Belizean Bread Pudding

Belizean Bread Pudding is a delightful and comforting dessert in Belizean cuisine. It is made by combining stale bread with a creamy mixture of milk, eggs, sugar, and warming spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. The mixture is then baked until it sets into a luscious and custard-like consistency. Often served warm, Belizean Bread Pudding is enjoyed on its own or with a drizzle of sweet sauce or a dollop of whipped cream, offering a delightful and satisfying end to a meal.

13. Hudutu

Belize Hudutu is a traditional and flavorful dish in Belizean cuisine, particularly among the Garifuna people. It consists of a rich and creamy coconut fish stew paired with mashed green and ripe plantains. The stew is made by simmering fish, typically red snapper, in a coconut milk base with spices like garlic, onions, and herbs. The mashed plantains serve as a starchy and flavorful accompaniment. Belize Hudutu is a comforting and satisfying meal that highlights the coastal flavors and culinary heritage of Belize.

14. Machuca – Mashed Plantain

Belize Machuca is a delicious and versatile dish in Belizean cuisine. It involves mashing ripe plantains until they become smooth and creamy. The mashed plantains are then flavored with butter or coconut milk for richness, and sometimes seasoned with salt or sugar to taste. Machuca can be enjoyed as a sweet or savory side dish, complementing a variety of main courses. It showcases the versatility of plantains and is a beloved staple in Belizean culinary culture.

15. Belizean Escabeche Soup

Belizean Escabeche Soup is a flavorful and tangy dish that is cherished in Belizean cuisine. It features chicken or fish simmered in a vibrant broth made with onions, vinegar, spices, and a hint of heat from habanero peppers. The soup is often garnished with crisp tortilla strips or fried plantain slices for added texture. Belizean Escabeche Soup offers a delicious balance of flavors and is a popular choice for warming up on cooler days or as a comforting meal option.

16. Belizean Sweet Potato Pudding (Pone)

Belizean Sweet Potato Pudding is a delightful and comforting dessert in Belizean cuisine. Made with grated sweet potatoes, coconut milk, sugar, spices, and sometimes raisins, it is a rich and aromatic pudding. The mixture is baked until it forms a luscious and custard-like consistency, with a slightly caramelized top. Belizean Sweet Potato Pudding is often enjoyed warm and is loved for its comforting flavors and the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. It is a beloved dessert that showcases the richness of Belizean culinary traditions.

17. Tamalitos or Ducunu

Tamalitos, also known as Ducunu, are a traditional and delicious dish in Belizean cuisine. They are made by blending fresh corn kernels with coconut milk, sugar, and a touch of salt. The mixture is wrapped in corn husks and steamed until cooked through. The result is a moist and slightly sweet corn cake with a delightful texture. Tamalitos or Ducunu are often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack, offering a taste of Belizean culinary heritage with every bite.

18. Cow Foot Soup

Belize Cow Foot Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is enjoyed in Belizean cuisine. It features tender cow foot simmered in a savory broth with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, onions, and herbs. The soup is often seasoned with spices and simmered until the flavors meld together, resulting in a rich and comforting soup. Belize Cow Foot Soup is a favorite for its nourishing qualities and the satisfying flavors it brings to the table, making it a popular choice for gatherings and family meals.

19. Sere

Belize Sere is a delicious and aromatic fish stew that is a staple in Belizean cuisine, particularly among the Garifuna people. It consists of fresh fish, typically snapper or grouper, cooked in a flavorful coconut milk broth with spices, herbs, and vegetables like okra, plantains, and bell peppers. The stew is simmered until the fish is tender and infused with the fragrant flavors of the coconut and seasonings. Belize Sere is a delightful and nourishing dish that showcases the coastal flavors and culinary heritage of Belize.

20. Panades

Belize Panades are a popular and tasty street food in Belizean cuisine. They are made by shaping a dough made from cornmeal, flour, and spices into small rounds, then filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground meat or fish. The filled dough is then flattened and fried until golden and crispy. Belize Panades are often served with a side of tangy onion sauce or habanero salsa, offering a flavorful and satisfying snack or appetizer with a delightful crunch.

21. Belizean Fudge

Belizean Fudge is a sweet and indulgent treat in Belizean cuisine. It is made by combining condensed milk, sugar, butter, and cocoa powder, which is then cooked until thickened and creamy. The mixture is then poured into a pan and left to set until firm. Belizean Fudge is rich, chocolatey, and has a smooth and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It is enjoyed as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat during special occasions and holidays in Belize.

22. Pudín de Pan (Caribbean Bread Pudding)

Belize Pudín de Pan, also known as Bread Pudding, is a comforting and delicious dessert in Belizean cuisine. It involves combining stale bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and a variety of flavorings such as vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The mixture is then baked until it forms a moist and custard-like consistency. Belize Pudín de Pan is often enjoyed warm, and sometimes served with a drizzle of sweet sauce or a dollop of whipped cream, making it a delightful and satisfying sweet treat.

23. Tamarind Balls

Belize Tamarind Balls are a tangy and sweet snack that is loved in Belizean cuisine. The recipe begins by preparing a paste from tamarind pulp, sugar, and water, which is then rolled into small balls. These balls are then coated with sugar or powdered sugar to create a sweet outer layer. Belize Tamarind Balls offer a delightful combination of sour and sweet flavors, making them a refreshing and enjoyable treat for snacking or as a dessert.

24. Rum Cake

Belize Rum Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that is cherished in Belizean cuisine. The recipe involves combining butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and a generous amount of rum, which infuses the cake with a rich and aromatic flavor. The batter is baked until golden and then soaked in a rum syrup, enhancing its moistness and taste. Belize Rum Cake is often enjoyed during festive occasions and celebrations, offering a delightful indulgence with a hint of Caribbean spirit.

25. Simple Besitos de Coco (Coconut Macaroons)

Belize Simple Besitos de Coco, or Coconut Kisses, are delightful and easy-to-make treats in Belizean cuisine. They consist of a mixture of shredded coconut, condensed milk, and vanilla extract, which is formed into small bite-sized balls. These balls are then baked until golden and slightly crispy on the outside while remaining chewy and sweet on the inside. Belize Simple Besitos de Coco offer a delightful burst of coconut flavor and are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings or as a delightful addition to festive occasions.

26. Cornmeal Pudding

Belize Cornmeal Pudding is a delicious and comforting dessert in Belizean cuisine. It combines cornmeal, coconut milk, sugar, butter, and a hint of vanilla to create a rich and creamy pudding. The mixture is then baked until it sets and forms a golden crust on top. Belize Cornmeal Pudding offers a delightful blend of textures with a slightly grainy interior and a smooth custard-like consistency. It is enjoyed warm or chilled and is a beloved dessert that highlights the flavors of Belize.

27. Coconut Sugar Caramelized Plantains

Belize Coconut Sugar Caramelized Plantains are a delightful and sweet treat in Belizean cuisine. Ripe plantains are sliced and caramelized in a mixture of coconut sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt. The plantains are cooked until they become tender and coated in a rich and sticky caramel sauce. Belize Coconut Sugar Caramelized Plantains offer a perfect balance of sweetness and caramel flavors, making them a delicious dessert or a scrumptious addition to breakfast or brunch.

28. Coconut Sugar Cakes

Belize Coconut Sugar Cakes are delightful and flavorful treats in Belizean cuisine. Made with a combination of coconut sugar, flour, butter, and grated coconut, the mixture is formed into small cakes and baked until golden and slightly crispy on the outside. These cakes offer a rich and caramel-like flavor with a hint of coconut. Belize Coconut Sugar Cakes are enjoyed as a sweet snack or dessert, capturing the essence of Belizean flavors and culinary traditions.

29. Pumpkin Flan – Belizean Foods

Pumpkin Flan is a delicious and creamy dessert in Belizean cuisine. It combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with a smooth custard made from eggs, condensed milk, and vanilla. The mixture is baked until it sets and forms a velvety texture with a caramelized sugar syrup on top. Belizean Pumpkin Flan offers a delightful balance of flavors, showcasing the rich and comforting taste of pumpkin. It is a beloved dessert enjoyed during special occasions and gatherings in Belize.

30. Black Cake (Caribbean Christmas Cake)

Belize Black Cake, also known as Caribbean Black Cake, is a rich and indulgent dessert that holds a special place in Belizean cuisine. It is made with a combination of dried fruits, such as raisins, currants, and prunes, soaked in rum and mixed with a batter of butter, sugar, eggs, and a blend of aromatic spices. The cake is then baked to perfection and often brushed with additional rum for added flavor. Belize Black Cake is a cherished treat during festive occasions and celebrations, offering a moist and flavorful delight.

31. Coquito Cheesecake (Coconut Rum Cheesecake)

Belize Coquito Cheesecake, also known as Coconut Rum Cheesecake, is a luscious and tropical dessert in Belizean cuisine. It combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the exotic flavors of coconut and rum. The crust is typically made with crushed cookies or graham crackers, while the filling consists of cream cheese, coconut milk, sugar, and a splash of rum. The cheesecake is baked until set and chilled to perfection. Belize Coquito Cheesecake offers a delightful fusion of flavors, making it a delightful indulgence for any occasion.

Why Belizean Food Recipes Are So Appealing

Belize is a small Caribbean country located in the Central America and bordered by coastal Mexico. It is famously known for great sites, reefs and islands. From the Great Blue Hole to the Caye Caulker, there are plenty of exotic places to visit.

Far from these places, Belize has another attraction to people visiting these places. The traditional Belize cuisine. These foods come from all areas and are derived from all cultures in Belize — like the Mestizo and Garifuna.

We all know the importance of food in societies. Bringing people together, building relationships and slaking hunger. Food from Belize cuisine has managed to do all that, not only to the Belizean people but also tourists that gather from around the world in Belize.

This nationality also enjoys their staple food of the old famous rice and beans with a choice of beef or chicken and salad to tag along. This is known as the Kriol dinner.

In this article, we highlight a guide of what Traditional food from Belize to look for and the cultures and heritages these foods derive from.

History of the Food From Belize

Belize has different types of culture and heritage. These different cultures produce different cuisines and a wide variety of Belizean recipes. Some of the cultures include Garifuna, Mestizo, the Chinese, Creole, Maya, Mennonites and East Indians.

— The Mestizo

This is a mixture of Spanish and Mexican ethnic groups. Their mixture enables this group have a variety of foods to choose from. This group loves spices added in foods and corn is the main food, which cannot miss in servings during the day. In tortillas and tamales, which is one of their favorite dishes, corn is present.

These cultures also appreciate fresh fruits included in their meals and enjoy a variety of them. Some of the best foods from this community include tamales, famous tacos, panades, garnaches and escabeche which has a lot of chicken and onions.

— The Garifuna

This culture is majorly derived from Caribbean and African heritages, though it includes Belizeans too. They all speak a combination of French, Maya, English and Spanish. These ones are also rich in traditional Belize food like the Garifuna sere which is made from fish, Hudutu which comprises of green plantains and coconut stew, Darasa which are the green banana Tamales and fish soup.

Hudutu is also cooked by other cultures as Sere and is widely appreciated in this small country.

— Creole

The Creole have a rich and assorted history. They date back to 1700s where British rulers brought in African slaves to cultivate farms. They are one of the main cultures and ethnic groups in Belize.

They are a simple culture that appreciates the old school rice and beans dish a lot. Their breakfast and snacks can get fancy as they love fry jacks and cakes in their menus. The creole love soup in their dishes and this cannot go unnoticed.

Moreover, they brew wines from grapes which they grow in their backyards.

— The East Indians

We all know how Indians enjoy culinary arts and spices. They usually endeavor in variety and love their cooking. This culture surely can not cook without spices.

— The Mennonites

This culture is considered as the backbone of this small Caribbean country. They have great agricultural skills and enjoy farming and production of food products. They also keep chicken and all sorts of edible birds. This chicken is supplied all over the country for great traditional Belizean recipes and foods like the Kriol dinner.

This culture also engages in great foods like rice, vegetables and eggs. Their farm produces include milk, cheese and fresh fruits which are loved by these nationalities.

— The Maya

They date back to the 7th century where they had to farm to produce a lot of food to feed themselves. They had a large population back then which has immensely grown to date. They are also great farmers and produce a variety of food which is supplied in the country, too. Their favorite food is Tamales but enjoy more of fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, meat and other spicy foods. The Maya culture contributes to a lot of food in Belize.

— Lebanese

This culture contributes their own unique flavor in Belize. They are also considered generous among this population. They appreciate traditional foods like hummus which is made from mashed chic peas and spices and kibbeh made of grains, meats, and onions. They also love spicy chicken and meat.

Old Belize Food Recipes and Cooking

A lot of cultures have dated from way back and a lot of foods from Belize have been cooked since then. Modes of cooking have changed quite immensely and more foods have been appreciated since.

These cultures have also held festivals where food was involved and served traditionally, too. Traditional Belize foods are also cooked in special equipment like the colanders, open cans, pots, cake pans and food portioners.

Wooden cooking sticks have been used in these cultures to cook and serve meals. Kitchen knives, slicers and thermometers have also been appreciated in the traditional old ways of cooking the food from Belize. Spatulas were used as spoons and forks while bowls were used as plates.

Some of the great old foods in Belize include Conchita pibil, rice and beans, vegetables and cereals and the famous spicy chicken. All these traditional foods were also prepared in various methods and unique elements used. Wines have also been brewed since way back.

Traditional Belizean dishes are much more appreciated than modern ones.

Modern Belizean Foods Recipes and Changing Cooking Techniques

Modern cooking comes with modern equipment and methods of cooking. In Belize, trade and tourism has brought in modern ways of cooking which has been widely appreciated in the country.

Food from Belize like stewed chicken, tamales, tacos, chimole, salbutes and cevinche were later introduced and loved entirely. Conch fritters, cheese dips, fry jacks, Johnny cakes, flour tortillas, fried eggs and meat pies were modernly introduced and also appreciated by the locals.

Other foods modernly appreciated include the bollos, pupusa and coconut tart. Desserts include lemon pie and sweet potato pudding.

Modern equipment was also introduced. For instance, cooking with gas, and ovens for baking. Fast foods have also been introduced, like the garnaches and parades.

Food in Belize has evolved widely. From breakfast to lunch and later dinner, this country offers a wide variety of dishes. If you thought you could only visit Belize for the great blue hole, now you know that great cuisines await you too.

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