Belize is known for its flourishing barrier reef, lush jungles, and friendly locals. But one of its most delightful offerings is its food. With a diverse cultural mix of Mayan, Creole, Garifuna, and Mestizo influences, Belizean cuisine provides a vibrant culinary journey. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, here are some unique food experiences that, as they say, you can have “only in Belize!” while you stay at Los Porticos Villas.
Learn How Hudut is Made
The Garifuna people, descended from African slaves and indigenous populations, have a rich culinary tradition, and one of the most iconic dishes you can find is Hudut. Made of mashed plantains served alongside a flavorful fish stew, often cooked with coconut milk, tomatoes, and seasoning, Hudut is a rich, aromatic meal that’s both comforting and unique. Join a Garifuna cooking class for a hands-on and immersive experience around the fire hearth as history is shared through storytelling and music. It’s a singular experience that is unique to Belize.
Taste a Termite Straight from the Tree
One of the most daring—and bizarre—food experiences in Belize is sampling termites during a jungle trek. Termites, rich in protein and often described as having a minty flavor, are a perfectly safe survival food if you ever find yourself desperate in the woods. During a jungle hike, your guide may show you how to find termites in their nests and coax a few out on a twig for a grab-and-go snack. They are crunchy and surprisingly mild in flavor, making them an exotic yet surprisingly tasty treat for the adventurous eater.
Eating the Unofficial National Dish of Belize: Rice and Beans
Rice and beans and fish
Rice and beans is, without a doubt, the unofficial national dish of Belize. Simple, filling, and packed with flavor, this beloved staple is enjoyed daily by locals and is served in nearly every restaurant and family kitchen across the country. Rice and Beans refers to the complete meal consisting of perfectly cooked rice and black beans simmered in coconut milk and spices, savory stewed chicken, a side of “salad” that would typically be creamy coleslaw or potato salad, and a strip of sweet plantain. While rice and beans might seem like a basic dish, its importance in Belizean culture cannot be overstated. Whether you’re enjoying it on a remote island during a snorkeling excursion or in a bustling marketplace in Belize City, this dish offers a delicious taste of Belizean home cooking. Pair it with a bottle of Belikin beer, and you’ll feel like a local in no time.
Trying Tamales from a Roadside Vendor
No trip to Belize is complete without sampling tamales, a beloved dish that’s both delicious and steeped in tradition. Unlike tamales you might find in other parts of Latin America, Belizean tamales have their own unique flair. What makes these tamales special is the preparation—soft corn masa (corn dough) is stuffed with seasoned meats like chicken, pork, or beef and wrapped in banana leaves instead of corn husks. The tamales are then steamed, creating a flavorful, moist, and satisfying meal. You’ll find tamales being sold by roadside vendors across Belize, often near local markets or in busy towns. These tamales are perfect for a quick snack or a light lunch, and the roadside setting adds to the authenticity of the experience. Give each bite an extra kick with the addition of some hot sauce- Marie Sharps being Belize’s brand of choice.
Whether you taste test a tiny termite or chow down on a hearty home-cooked platter of rice and beans, Belize’s food scene offers a variety of experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Experience these and other authentic flavors… only in Belize!
