Welcome to Belize

WelcomeTo Belize

Food/Cuisine:

The diversifying and varied culture of the country of Belize is illustrated in their many types of cuisines and foods. Their food consists of a variety of not only local flavors and ingredients, but additionally other ethnically diverse places as well including: “American, Chinese, British, European, Mexican, Mayan, Creole, Garifuna, Mestizo, Indian, Nigerian, and Central American dishes” (Belize Immigration par. 1). One recipe, which stood out to us in particular was stew chicken, rice and beans. In Belize this dish is the closest thing considered to a national delicacy. This dish is commonly known all throughout Belize and is one of the main staples there. Especially in this dish, there is cultural pluralism seen in not only Mexico, but Creole influence as well. What provides this meal with cultural diversity and uniqueness is, “its main ingredients including, Creole spices such as; recado rojo, annatto seed or achiote” (What to Eat par. 1). After doing some research on food from Belize, we noticed some similarities between the American culture. An example being, Belizeans usually eat three separate meals per day, and they tend to be more informal.

Music:

Belize is rich in many cultures and traditions, especially through music. A popular music genre that has been recently making a presence in Belize is reggae. Reggae has its origins in Jamaica, when “the first Jamaican recording studio opened in 1951 and recorded “mento” music, a fusion of European and African folk music” (History of Reggae par. 1). After that, reggae evolved in Jamaica, and, “as the early 1970s went on, reggae music began to make international acclaim” (History of Reggae par. 3). As reggae started spreading internationally, it made its way to Belize. Many famous reggae artists are from Belize, including ELJAI, born in Belize City, Belize. Belizean civilians love to sing and dance to the strong beats and rhythms of reggae and have incorporated the Jamaican-born genre into its vast culture.

Sydney Gent, Angela Rini