Half way through Veganuary and struggling for recipe inspiration? Here are 3 of our favourite Belizean dishes to keep you on track. Even better, they are easy to make and simply delicious. Indeed, each bite will have you thinking of Belize. Whether that be planning your next trip or simply reminiscing on your favourite Belize memory.
Rice & Beans
Rice and Beans Photo Courtesy: Belizing.com
The national dish of Belize, so one we simply had to include. This recipe can be paired with your favourite form of plant-based protein
Ingredients
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup stewed beans
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon thyme
- 2 cups white rice
- 1 cup coconut milk, unsweetened
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons diced cilantro, optional
Directions
Sauté onions and garlic in a sauce pot. Add stewed beans along with the liquid. Season with salt, pepper and thyme. Stir in rice, coconut milk and water. Cover and cook on medium heat for approximately 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Reduce heat to medium low. Spring with ¼ cup water, cover and continue cooking for approximately 10 minutes or so until rice is tender and water absorbed.
Alternatively, Stewed beans is another great recipe that can be used in a number of vegan dishes and recipes. Try your hand at these, if you are looking for a carb-free alternative.
Fry Jacks
One for the morning and another signature Belizean dish. Serve it up with your favorite preserve, some fresh local fruit or even a side of refried beans.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shorting
- ¾ cup water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
Sift flour, baking powder and salt in a bowl. Cut shortening into flour. Add water, a little at a time, to make a soft, but not sticky dough. Divide dough into two rounds. Let rest for 15 to 20 minutes. Lightly flour counter top or cutting board. Roll dough out to about 10 to 12 inches round. Cut lengthwise into 2 to 3 inch strings and then crosswise to desired size. Heat oil and fry on each side until golden brown. Serve hot.
Potato Pound
Our final recipe is for those craving a sweet fix. A Belizean favourite and one to please everyone, even if they aren’t doing Veganuary.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds sweet potato, peeled, grated
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (substitution for butter)
- 4 cups brown sugar
- 4 cups coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon grated nutmeg
Directions
Preheat oven to 375 Fahrenheit. Combine all ingredients in a saucepot. Bring to a boil and cook over medium heat until mixture thickens slightly. Pour into a greased 9” X 13” baking dish and bake for 35 to 45 minutes or until golden brown. Makes 12 to 15 servings.
All recipes are from the Flavors of Belize Cookbook. The cookbook is a culinary tabletop book, which highlights the best of Belize’s cuisine from the mix of rich cultures our country boasts. The cookbook itself shares a little about all of Belize. While it is very heavily focused on food, it’s not just a cookbook. Inside, find over 120 authentic Belizean recipes that represent the most delectable foods of Belize. The cookbook features recipes from over 10 different ethnic groups, many which were handed down through generations.
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