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When December arrives in Belize, the festive spirit fills the air—but so do the comforting aromas of simmering soups and slow-cooked stews. While Belize doesn’t experience winter like colder countries, evenings during the holiday season are cooler, calmer, and perfect for enjoying hearty Belizean dishes shared with family and friends.
Soups and stews are at the heart of Belize holiday food, especially during Christmas & new year week. Influenced by Maya, Creole, Mestizo, and Garifuna traditions, these dishes are deeply tied to togetherness, celebration, and home cooking. From rich recado stews to soothing chicken corn soup, Belize soups in December are all about warmth, flavor, and tradition.
If you’re visiting Belize during the holidays—or simply curious about local cuisine—here are the must-try Belizean soups and hearty dishes that make holiday evenings truly special.
Why Soups & Stews Are Holiday Staples in Belize
December in Belize brings slightly cooler temperatures, festive gatherings, and longer evenings spent with loved ones. This is when soups and stews take center stage. These dishes are often prepared in large pots, perfect for feeding extended families during New Year’s Eve dinners, post-church meals, and casual holiday get-togethers.
Across the country, soups symbolize comfort and care. Many recipes are passed down through generations, with each family adding its own twist. The slow cooking process allows flavors to develop fully, making every bowl deeply satisfying. Whether served at home or in small local eateries, soups and stews are a defining part of Belize’s holiday food culture.
Traditional Belize Soups & Hearty Dishes to Try
Recado Stew (Red or Black) – Belize’s Ultimate Comfort Dish
Recado stew is one of the most iconic and beloved Belizean dishes, especially during holidays. Made using recado paste—a blend of spices and achiote—this stew comes in two popular varieties: red recado and black recado.
Red recado stew is vibrant and mildly earthy, while black recado has a deeper, smoky flavor achieved by charring spices. Chicken is the most common protein, though beef and pork are also used.
Key Ingredients: Achiote (annatto), garlic, onions, tomatoes, spices, and meat
Why It’s Popular: Recado stew is often served on New Year’s Eve, paired with rice, tortillas, or potato salad. Its rich flavor and hearty texture make it perfect for festive dinners.
Simple Home Recipe:
- Marinate chicken or meat with recado paste and spices
- Brown the meat, then simmer with tomatoes and onions
- Cook slowly until tender and flavorful
Where to Try It Locally:
- Mestizo kitchens in Orange Walk and Corozal
- Traditional restaurants in San Ignacio
- Family-run eateries across northern Belize
Chicken Corn Soup – A Belizean Classic for December Nights
Chicken corn soup is a comforting favorite across Belize, especially during cooler evenings in December. Light yet filling, this soup is both nourishing and flavorful, often enjoyed after long holiday celebrations.
Fresh corn on the cob gives the soup a naturally sweet taste, while herbs add depth without overpowering the dish.
Key Ingredients: Chicken, fresh corn, onions, cilantro, garlic
Why It’s Perfect for the Holidays: Chicken corn soup is easy to digest and often served late in the evening, making it ideal after New Year parties or family gatherings.
Simple Home Recipe:
- Boil chicken with onions and garlic
- Add corn pieces and simmer until tender
- Finish with fresh herbs
Where to Try It Locally:
- Street food stalls in Belize City
- Small local eateries in Dangriga
- Neighborhood kitchens throughout the country
Caldo – Rustic and Soul-Warming Belizean Soup
Caldo is a traditional, rustic soup enjoyed across Belize, particularly in rural areas. It’s a brothy dish packed with root vegetables and meat, offering warmth without heaviness.
Each region has its own version, but caldo always emphasizes natural flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Key Ingredients: Beef or chicken, cassava, yam, plantain, herbs
Cultural Roots: Caldo reflects Belize’s agrarian traditions, using locally grown produce and simple seasoning. It’s a common dish during the cooler holiday season.
Simple Home Recipe:
- Simmer meat until tender
- Add root vegetables and cook slowly
- Season lightly and serve hot
Where to Try It:
- Village kitchens in Cayo District
- Roadside diners and small cafés
- Family-run restaurants outside tourist centers
Black Bean Soup – A Holiday Favorite with Creole Roots
Black bean soup holds a special place in Belizean food traditions, especially within Creole households. Thick, savory, and deeply satisfying, it’s often enjoyed during New Year’s week.
Some versions include coconut milk for extra richness, while others keep it simple and hearty.
Key Ingredients: Black beans, onions, garlic, spices, optional coconut milk
Holiday Connection: Black bean soup is commonly served alongside rice, fried plantains, or fresh bread during holiday meals.
Simple Home Recipe:
- Boil black beans until soft
- Blend partially for thickness
- Season and simmer gently
Where to Try It:
- Creole restaurants in Belize City
- Home-style cafés across coastal towns
- Local food stalls
Belizean Drinks That Pair Perfectly with These Dishes
No holiday meal in Belize is complete without traditional drinks. These festive beverages complement Belizean soups and stews beautifully:
- Sorrel Drink: Made from hibiscus flowers, spices, and citrus—an essential Belize drink
- Ginger Beer: Homemade, spicy, and refreshing
- Cocoa Tea: A traditional warm drink made from local cacao
These drinks balance the richness of holiday soups while adding seasonal flavor to every meal.
Where to Experience Authentic Belize Holiday Food
For the most authentic experience, skip large restaurants and seek out local markets, town eateries, and family-run kitchens. December is the perfect time to explore food stalls near churches, village centers, and holiday events.
Some of the best Belize holiday food isn’t found on menus—it’s shared generously by locals who take pride in their culinary traditions.
Tips for Travelers Trying Belize Holiday Soups
- Ask locals what’s cooking that day
- Visit small towns for authentic flavors
- Try soups earlier in the evening when they’re freshest
- Embrace regional variations and homemade styles
Final Thoughts
Belize soups and hearty dishes are more than just food—they’re a celebration of culture, family, and tradition. During December, these comforting meals bring people together and offer visitors a delicious way to experience Belize’s holiday spirit.
Whether you’re enjoying recado stew by candlelight, sipping sorrel with black bean soup, or warming up with chicken corn soup after a festive day, Belize’s holiday cuisine is best enjoyed slowly—one spoonful at a time.