Top 10 Must Eat Foods in Belize

Belize is known to be home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef system, jaw-dropping caves, lush rainforest, charming beaches, however, one of the main things that make us special is our delicious and diverse culinary. Here in Belize, we have a ‘melting pot of cultures’ which extends to the kitchen making our food and dishes a unique taste of Belize. Belize has so much delicious food, therefore, we have narrowed it to the top 10 must eat foods in Belize when on vacation.

1.Fry Jacks

Belize’s puffy fry jacks are known for creating a smile in your tummy! Fry jacks are a traditional dish in Belizean cuisine. They are deep-fried flour dough pieces served as a breakfast item and can be shaped like circles or triangles. This deliciousness is paired with refried beans, sausage, bacon, and eggs. That's the reason this is among our top 10 must eat foods in Belize.

2.Rice and Beans

This is probably Belize’s national dish as without a doubt it is the most abundant meal in the country. Every person has it's own way of preparation, but it all starts with the basics of rice and Red Kidney beans with coconut milk. This dish is usually served for lunch or dinner and it's paired with stew chicken, fry ripe plantains, and salad to create a true taste of Belize.

3.Salbutes

Salbutes are one of Belize’s most popular snack foods. They are tiny fried corn tortillas that are topped with a delicious mix of cabbage, chicken, avocado, chicken, and locally-made hot sauce.

4.Tamales

Tamales is another traditional dish made of corn dough (masa) which is filled with seasoned meat (chicken or pork) then steamed or boiled in plantain or banana leaves. Tamales have been traced back to the Ancient Maya people, who prepared them for feasts as early as the Pre-Classic period (1200–250 BC). Here in Belize, they’re a dish from the Maya and Mestizo Culture.

5.Chimole

Chimole is another traditional dish served in Belize and is also known as “Black Dinner” because of its dark appearance. Ingredients include spices and some black recado (achiote paste, a blend of spices commonly used in Maya cuisine) in block pieces. The dark soup consists of chicken, boiled eggs, and vegetables. This dish was first known by Mestizos, but with Belize’s vast cultural diversity, most Belizeans are making it in their homes and for special occasions.

6.Hudut

Hudut is a very common traditional meal from the Garifuna Culture of Belize. Hudut consists of fish cooked in a coconut broth (called sere) and served with mashed plantains or yams. This is a must-try food once you’re staying at Hummingbird Estate Cabanas as you are just a few minutes away from the Culture Capital of Belize, Dangriga Town which is the largest and authentic Garifuna town.

7. Cochinita Pibil

Traditional Cochinita Pibil involves slow cooking in a banana-leaf-wrapped-pig in a smoldering pit lined with stones. The pig would have previously been marinated, and after, the pig is allowed to cook in its juices and marinade for hours in the ground. The resulting meat falls apart easily and has a rich seasoned flavor. Often it’s enjoyed simply, with pickled onions and corn tortillas. Often, this pig-roasted-in-a-pit is a part of a big celebration like a wedding or a family get-together.

8. Panades

These delectable snacks are also another great option for lunch when in Belize.  Panades is a deep-fried corn tortilla folded in half with smoked fish filling, beans, chicken, or cheese. They are usually topped with ‘Cortido’ which is a sauce made from White Vinegar, Onions, Salt, and Haberneros. This sauce gives each panadas the balancing fried flavor with an acidic spice.

9.Ceviche

Ceviche is the ultimate Belizean appetizer that is gaining popularity around the world. The seafood of your choice (Conchs, shrimp, or lobster) is marinated in lime juice with onions, garlic, habanero peppers, and other ingredients, thereafter, you allowed it to sit for a while. Each cook adds its twist to it to make a tasty dish. However, the best Belizean ceviche is made with fresh raw conch and there’s nothing better than enjoying it with some fresh homemade corn chips and a Belikin Beer on a hot, sunny day.

10. Johnny Cakes

Johnny cakes, sometimes referred to as journey cakes, are small baked bread cakes, made with flour and coconut milk. They are best when cooked in the traditional fire hearth. The Johnny Cake is often cut in half and slathered with butter, refried beans, and cheese and sold as a Belize fast food for breakfast. With added bits of stewed chicken or beef, it doubles as an economical, nutritious, and hearty lunch for those on the go. It more commonly accompanies a breakfast of scrambled or sunny side up eggs, re-fried beans, cheese, and bacon.

Book your stay at Hummingbird Estate Cabanas

While vacationing at Hummingbird Estate Cabanas you can enjoy all this Belizean deliciousness. At our Bed & Breakfast, we offer comfortable, clean, and affordable cabanas for you and your family to have an UnBelizeable vacation. To start planning your Belize Vacation, email us at info@hecabanasbandb.com or visit  www.hecabanasbandb.com. To keep up with the latest news about Belize and our Bed & Breakfast follow us on our social media platforms Instagram and Facebook.