Ever wonder why traditions hold such importance during the holidays? According to Dimitris Xygalatas, a professor of anthropology at the University of Connecticut, rituals like holiday celebrations act as “the glue that holds the family together.” From cherished moments like gift-giving to communal meals and festive gatherings, these rituals also help reduce anxiety, offering comfort and connection in the company of loved ones.
As Christmas approaches, one ritual that stands out is the tradition of toasting. Whether you’re clinking glasses with friends or family, few moments capture the holiday spirit like raising a glass together.
Why Food and Drink Are Essential Holiday Rituals
Holiday gatherings often revolve around the dining table, where delicious meals and festive libations are the centerpieces. Toasting traditions, as Xygalatas explains, are particularly symbolic, often tied to cultural superstitions. For instance, in some European countries, failing to lock eyes during a toast is said to invite seven years of bad luck!
Whether you’re superstitious or just sentimental, make your holiday celebrations extra special by stocking your bar with world-class rums. Belize’s very own Travellers Liquors has crafted a line of award-winning spirits that elevate any gathering. Their exotic, flavorful rums will ensure your holiday rituals are unforgettable. From refreshing tropical mixes to indulgent classics, Travellers’ diverse range of spirits ensures there’s a perfect cocktail for every guest.
The Holiday Star: Travellers Rum Popo Rum Cream
Photo by Travellers Liquors
For fans of creamy, indulgent holiday drinks, Travellers Rum Popo Rum Cream is an absolute must. A modern twist on Belize’s traditional rum popo, this egg-based spiced drink is infused with premium rums and flavors that capture the spirit of the season.
The original recipe, lovingly passed down through the generations by Mrs. Perla Pedromo, wife of Travellers’ founder, is a Belizean holiday staple.
Serve Rum Popo Rum Cream:
- On the rocks
- Straight up
- Mixed into coffee
- As a decadent dessert topping
However you enjoy it, this smooth liqueur is sure to become the highlight of your holiday celebrations, redefining how you think about traditional eggnog.
This holiday dessert literally takes the cake
Enjoy a side of black cake. Photo by Flavors of Belize
What’s as yummy as Travellers rum on the rocks? Using it to make traditional Belizean Black Fruit Cake. This traditional sweet is a delicious amalgam of colonial influences, Belize traditions and spices.
Ingredients
- 4 cups Traveller’s gold rum
- 7 cups brown sugar, firmly packed, divided
- 2 pounds raisins
- 1 pound prunes, quartered
- 2 pounds candied mixed fruit
- 1 pound candied red cherries
- 1 cup pecans, diced
- 8 eggs
- 1 pound butter, room temperature
- 8 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 3 teaspoons nutmeg
- 3 teaspoons cinnamon powder
- 2 cups Belikin Stout
- 1 cup caramel coloring
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 275F. Line 3 to 4 cake pans, 8” each, with parchment paper and grease paper with shortening. Stew fruits with rum and 2 cups brown sugar in a medium pot until most of the rum is absorbed. Set aside to cool. Cream butter and 5 cups sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each one. Combine flour, baking powder, allspice, nutmeg, and cinnamon, alternating with stout and coloring. Fold in fruit and pecans and toss until blended. Fill prepared baking pans ¾ full and bake for about 3 hours.
Get Travellers Rum for the Holidays
There’s still time to stock up on Travellers Liquors for your Christmas festivities. Explore their full range of products, from classic rums to specialty liqueurs, on their website. Your guests will thank you, and your toasts will be all the merrier.
This holiday season, raise a glass filled with the taste of Belize and experience the joy of traditions shared over exceptional spirits. Christmas just isn’t complete without Travellers.
Photos courtesy of Travellers Liquors unless captioned otherwise
