As the days get shorter and the holiday season slowly creeps in (Christmas music and all), in Belize and the greater Caribbean, it’s really the food that shines above all. As many gear up to do some shopping, some just prepare to eat! And how relatable is that? From rich soups to spiced cakes, the Caribbean is a region brimming with flavors, especially for the holidays. If you’re a food-loving traveler looking to add some tropical zest to your holidays, get ready to dive in! Here are some of the best dishes to try while celebrating a tropical Christmas.
Relleno – A Belizean Delicacy
Belizean holiday feasting often begins with a hearty dish that always holds a special place on the table. This dark, savory stew, affectionately known as “black dinna” is made with black recado (a rich, earthy spice blend that gives the dish its dark color) and filled with a mix of pork and chicken.
Relleno might be seen more in the north of Belize, where many Mestizo and Maya descendants cook the soup on a fire hearth. However, as Christmas rolls around, many restaurants pin it on the menu. For an authentic experience, try relleno at local restaurants or family-owned eateries in Belize. The dish is typically served with corn tortillas or rice, and each bite offers a warming, homestyle taste of Belize’s cultural heritage.
Similar: November and December: The Months for Foodie Travels in Belize
Sorrel – The Caribbean Staple
No holiday celebration in the Caribbean is complete without sorrel, a tart drink made from hibiscus flowers. This vibrant and refreshing drink is a holiday staple, often sweetened with sugar, ginger, cloves, and sometimes even a splash of rum. Served over ice, it’s a refreshing contrast to the richness of many holiday dishes. After eating all cookies and cake, this drink serves as the perfect palate cleanser. Sorrel is available throughout Central America. In Mexico and Belize you’ll hear it being called Agua de Jamaica. However, islands like Trinidad and Jamaica spice it up further for the festivities. This festive drink is not only delicious but also boasts a wealth of health benefits.
Black Cake – Quintessentialy Christmas
This Caribbean holiday treat has a rich history and flavor profile that puts it in a league of its own. Known for its moist texture and deep, complex flavor, this cake is made by soaking dried fruits in rum and wine—often for weeks or even months—before baking. The result is a dark, dense cake that’s packed with spiced richness and a hint of bitterness that pairs beautifully with holiday spirits. In places such as Trinidad and Belize, black cake is a cherished tradition. When one is doing their yearly visit of relatives, black cakes are almost always the most popular gift. For those who love a dessert with depth and a festive kick, black cake is an absolute must-try.
While many start Christmas gift shopping early, it’s also never too early to think of all the food! If you choose to travel in the Caribbean during the holidays, these are the best dishes to enhance your experience even further.
