Belizean Street Food: A Budget-Friendly Taste Of Paradise

Belize is known for its diverse and delicious street food, which offers a window into the country's rich cultural history. From tacos and BBQ to rice and beans, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The best part? It's affordable! You can get a delicious, filling meal for as little as $4 US, and most street food items range from $0.50 to $2. So, if you're looking for an authentic culinary experience in Belize, be sure to check out the local street food vendors. Your stomach will thank you!

Tacos

Belizean tacos are made with corn tortillas, stuffed with meat such as chicken, beef, fish or pork, and often topped with cheese, tomatoes, onions, and a spicy sauce. Fried tacos are also an option, topped with grated hard cheese, and chopped cabbage and onion sauce.

If you're in Belize, be sure to try the street tacos in Orange Walk. They are melt-in-your-mouth tender and juicy, with a symphony of flavours. You can wash them down with a Coca-Cola or Horchata.

Rice and Beans

Belizean street food is a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine. One of the most popular dishes in Belize is rice and beans, a classic Caribbean dish that is considered a staple food in the country. This dish is simple to make and can be found in most restaurants, from mom-and-pop eateries to fine dining establishments.

The recipe for Belizean rice and beans usually includes red kidney beans, although black beans or black-eyed peas can also be used. The beans are cooked with garlic, onion, and spices like black pepper, thyme, and salt. Coconut milk is then added to the mixture, giving it a distinct taste. Finally, the rice is added to the seasoned beans, and the dish is cooked on low heat until the rice is tender.

The beauty of rice and beans in Belize lies in its versatility. Each ethnic group in the country adds its own twist to this dish, resulting in a variety of flavours. Whether it's the classic Creole version, the curried East Indian variety, Maya caldo, or the fiery hot Caribbean style, there's a rice and beans dish to suit every palate.

Fry Jacks

How to Make Fry Jacks

First, mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Then, cut in the shortening or butter. Next, slowly add water or milk and mix until you have a soft, non-sticky dough. Divide the dough in half and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

After the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8-1/4 inch (3-5 mm). Cut the dough into triangles or half-moons, or any shape you prefer. Heat oil in a pan or skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry each piece of dough in the hot oil until golden brown and puffed.

Serving Suggestions

Calories and Nutrition

The number of calories in a Fry Jack depends on the ingredients used and the size of the Jack. A single Fry Jack made with water instead of milk contains approximately 167 calories.

Variations

There are a few variations to the traditional Fry Jack recipe. Some people like to cut a slit in the centre of the dough before frying, resulting in a crispier texture. Others experiment with different herbs and spices in the dough or try stuffing the Fry Jacks with various toppings, such as beans, cheese, or even chocolate.

Panades

Belizean panades are a type of fried pastry, similar to empanadas, with a savoury filling. They are a popular street food in Belize and are considered a cultural staple. Panades are made with corn dough (called "masa" or "masa harina") and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including fish, meat, cheese, or beans.

History and Cultural Significance

The origin of panades is tied to the diverse cultural influences in Belize, including Mayan, Mestizo, and other indigenous communities. Panades are believed to have Spanish roots and have become an integral part of Belizean cuisine. They are often shared at gatherings, celebrations, and family meals, making them a symbol of Belizean hospitality and community.

Preparation and Serving

To make panades, the dough is prepared by mixing masa harina with water and salt, then divided into small balls that are flattened into discs. The filling typically consists of sautéed onions, garlic, and ground meat (chicken, fish, or pork) seasoned with spices like cumin, chili powder, and pepper. The filling is placed in the centre of the dough, which is then folded over into a half-moon shape and sealed with a fork. The assembled panades are deep-fried until golden brown and served hot, often with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or rice and beans.

Variations and Customisation

While the classic panades feature a meat filling, vegetarian options with beans or cheese are also popular. The level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit individual preferences.

Where to Find Panades in Belize

Garnaches

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and ease of preparation. While you can make your own tortillas and refried beans, it is also common to use store-bought versions to speed up the process. The traditional version of the dish includes only refried beans, Dutch cheese, fried corn tortillas, and habanero/onion sauce. However, it is easy to make vegetarian or vegan versions by omitting the meat and cheese.

Some recipes call for adding tomato sauce or ketchup on top of the garnaches, and they can also be made with mini tortilla chips as a fun game-day appetizer. In Belize, garnaches are often served with a spicy salsa or Belizean Hot Pepper Onion Sauce, which includes habanero peppers, onions, allspice, cilantro, water, salt, and vinegar. This sauce can be made a day in advance to allow the flavours to marinate.

Frequently asked questions