Leslie Massey
Belize's culinary scene is a mix of Latin American, Caribbean, Mayan, Mexican, African, and Spanish influences. While there are plenty of delicious dishes to try, there are also some things you might want to avoid. Here's a list of what not to eat or drink during your stay in Belize:
- French Fries: They are usually imported, pre-cut, and frozen, so opt for local alternatives like cassava chips, plantain chips, or corn tortilla chips.
- Sandwiches: Belizeans don't consider sandwiches a proper meal, so go for a heartier option like the local favourite, rice and beans.
- Termites: While they are a source of protein and a unique experience, they might not be everyone's cup of tea, taste-wise.
- Steak: Belize is known for its chicken, pork, and seafood, so it's best to savour those instead of settling for a chewy steak.
- Bailed Cheesecake: This dessert is made with imported ingredients and doesn't offer an authentic taste of Belizean cuisine.
- Noni Fruit: This fruit has an unappealing aroma and taste, often likened to sweaty gym socks, stinky cheese, and vomit.
- Protected Wildlife and Out-of-Season Seafood/Game Meat: Avoid dishes made with sea turtles, manatees, tapirs, or howler monkeys, as these are protected species. Stick to seasonal options to support sustainable practices.
- Tap Water: Tap water in Belize is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water or other beverage options.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tap water | Not safe to drink |
| Salads | Rare and hard to come by |
| Vegetables | Scarce |
| Meat | Free-range, grass-fed beef |
| Seafood | Excellent |
| Lobster | Served in a vast array of dishes |
| Hot sauce | Marie Sharp's is a popular brand |
| Meat pies | Very time-consuming to create from scratch |
| Breakfast | Consists of stewed chicken, refried beans, flour tortillas, Fry Jacks, Chaya eggs, Johnny Cakes |
| Lunch | Rice and beans |
| Dinner | Rice and beans |
What You'll Learn
Tap water
The safety of tap water in Belize depends on the specific location. In some places, such as San Pedro and the island of Ambergris Caye, the water is not considered clean and is recycled through reverse osmosis, so it is recommended to drink bottled water in these areas. In other parts of Belize, such as Santa Elena and San Ignacio in the Cayo District, the tap water is safe to drink. The water in these areas is treated and pumped through houses, and locals drink it without any issues.
Belize's tap water is treated and chlorinated, and while it is safe for locals, travellers may experience an upset stomach or diarrhoea after drinking it. This is a common issue for people new to the water in Belize, and it usually goes away after a couple of weeks as they get used to it. Some expats choose to use filtered water or stick to bottled water to avoid any potential issues.
In conclusion, while tap water in Belize may be safe for locals, travellers are advised to exercise caution and opt for bottled or filtered water to reduce the risk of any stomach issues during their stay.
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Noni fruit
In Belize, noni shrubs are common along the beaches and roadsides of Placencia Peninsula and other coastal and island communities like Hopkins, Caye Caulker, and Ambergris Caye.
If you're in Belize, it's recommended that you don't drink noni juice. Instead, you could try drinking bitters, a traditional Belizean drink made by infusing an anise liquor and rum base with rainforest herbs, roots, and barks that are said to boost your immune system and improve your love life.
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Out-of-season seafood
Seafood is a staple of Belizean cuisine, with the fishing industry contributing significantly to the country's economy. However, it is important to be mindful of the sustainability and seasonality of seafood when visiting Belize.
The Belize Fisheries Department has implemented seasons and size limits for many commercial seafood species to protect wild fisheries stocks and preserve the marine ecosystem. Here are some of the out-of-season seafood items in Belize and their respective closed seasons:
Conch
Conch is a delicacy in Belize, but it has a closed season from July 1st to September 30th. During this period, it is prohibited to catch or consume conch to allow for the replenishment of conch populations.
Lobster
Lobster is another popular seafood item in Belize, with the lobster season running from June 15th to February 14th. The Lobsterfest, held annually in mid-June, marks the opening of the lobster season and is a highly anticipated event for both locals and tourists.
Nassau Grouper
Nassau Grouper is out of season from December 1st to March 31st. It is important to avoid consuming this fish during its closed season to ensure the sustainability of its populations.
Wild Shrimp
Wild Shrimp has a closed season from July 14th to March 14th. However, it is important to note that farm-raised shrimp is available year-round and can be consumed outside of the wild shrimp season.
Hickatee
Hickatee, also known as the Central American River Turtle, has a closed season from May 1st to May 31st. This short window allows for the conservation of this species, which is native to Belize and the surrounding region.
Sea Cucumber
Sea Cucumber is out of season from July 1st to December 31st. As with other seafood items, it is important to refrain from consuming Sea Cucumber during its closed season to support the sustainability efforts of the Belize Fisheries Department.
By being mindful of the seasons and size limits for seafood in Belize, you can make informed choices when dining out or purchasing seafood. This helps to protect the marine ecosystem and ensure the long-term vitality of seafood species for future generations.
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French fries
If you're looking for something more authentic, there are plenty of local alternatives to choose from. Cassava chips, plantain chips, green fried plantain, and fried breadfruit are all delicious options that will give you a real taste of Belize. These alternatives are often hand-cut and made with fresh, local ingredients.
If you're looking for something to dip into your salsa, head to Pop's Tortilleria on Main Street in downtown Placencia Village, where you can get a bag of freshly fried tortilla chips. Fried breadfruit is another great option, but it's a seasonal specialty, so be sure to order it if you see it on the menu.
So, while French fries may be widely available in Belize, they are not the best choice for visitors seeking an authentic culinary experience. By opting for local alternatives, you'll get to enjoy unique flavours and support local producers.
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Sandwiches
Belize's sandwiches are often served on sliced white bread, with American and Mexican influences.
Johnny Cakes
Johnny Cakes are small bread rolls made with wheat flour, coconut milk, baking powder, and shortening. They are dense but soft, with a light coconut taste. They are usually served for breakfast with refried beans, eggs, meat, or cheese. However, they can also be used to make sandwiches, especially for lunch. Johnny Cakes are a popular food in Belize and can be eaten at any time of the day.
Fry Jacks
Fry Jacks are another popular option for sandwiches in Belize. They are made by deep-frying wheat dough in a semi-moon or triangle shape. They are crunchy yet soft and airy and are best enjoyed hot. Fry Jacks are typically served with eggs and beans but can also be eaten as a sandwich. They are a staple dish in Belize and can be found in most breakfast restaurants.
Tamales
Tamales, also known as Dukunu, are mini corn tamales that can be prepared in various ways. They can be sweet, savoury, or filled with meat and are often served for lunch. They are a traditional Mayan dish, commonly found in countries with Mayan heritage, such as Belize.
Salbutes
Salbutes are fluffy, fried corn tortillas topped with stewed chicken, tomato, and cabbage. They are a typical dish in Belize, despite originating in Mexico. They are sold by street vendors as finger food and can be enjoyed as a sandwich or alongside other dishes.
Meat Pies
Meat pies are a Belizean dish influenced by English cuisine. They are hand-sized pies with a flaky pastry and a variety of fillings, most commonly minced meat and gravy sauce. They are crunchy and flavourful and can be found in coffee shops, bakeries, and from street vendors.
Pupusas
Pupusas are a popular street food in Belize, originating from El Salvador. They are made with corn dough and stuffed with cheese, chicharrones, or beans. They are cheap and delicious and can be enjoyed as a sandwich or alongside other dishes.
Conch Fritters
Conch fritters are a seasonal appetizer, popular in Central America and the Caribbean. They are made with chopped conch, flour, water, and Belizean herbs and spices. They are served with homemade ranch dressing or a spicy pepper sauce dip. While they are commonly served in bars, they can also be found in restaurants as an appetizer or snack.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you avoid French fries, sandwiches, and steaks in Belize. French fries are usually pre-cut and imported, while sandwiches are considered a snack rather than a meal by Belizeans. As for steaks, the meat tends to be tougher and chewier compared to North American beef.
Instead of French fries, try cassava chips, plantain chips, or corn tortilla chips. For a more filling meal, opt for Belize's national dish, rice and beans, or sample the local seafood, which is abundant and fresh.
Tap water in Belize is generally not considered safe to drink, so it is recommended to stick to bottled water.
Yes, it is important to avoid dishes made from protected wildlife or out-of-season seafood and game meat. Sea turtle steak, for example, was once a common dish but is now illegal due to the endangered status of sea turtles.
While not something to avoid, it is worth noting that vegetables can be scarce in Belizean cuisine, especially in Creole food. If you are a vegetarian, your options may be limited outside of tourist areas.
