Belize National Dish: Rice and Beans with Stewed Chicken

Belize, a vibrant country in Central America, is known for its diverse culture and rich culinary traditions. The national dish of Belize, Rice and Beans with Stewed Chicken, is a hearty, flavorful meal that reflects the country's Afro-Caribbean and Creole heritage. Simple yet deeply satisfying, this dish is a staple in Belizean households and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Belizean Rice and beans. Photo taken from chabilmarvillas.com

What Makes It Special?

The combination of rice and beans cooked in coconut milk paired with succulent stewed chicken seasoned with a medley of spices is the heart of Belizean comfort food. Served with fried plantains, potato salad, or coleslaw, this dish perfectly balances sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.

Rice and Beans with Stewed Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Rice and Beans:

• 2 cups rice

• 1 cup dried red kidney beans (or 1 can, drained)

• 1 can coconut milk

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 small onion (diced)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• Water
  

For the Stewed Chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 small onion (diced)

• 1 green bell pepper (chopped)

• 1 tomato (diced)

• 1 tablespoon recado (a traditional spice blend, similar to annatto)

• 1 teaspoon thyme

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 1 cup water
  

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Beans and Rice

1. If using dried beans, soak them overnight, then boil until tender. If using canned beans, rinse and drain.

2. In a pot, sauté the garlic and onion in a little oil.

3. Add the cooked beans, coconut milk, salt, and enough water to cook the rice.

4. Once it boils, add the rice. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
   

Step 2: Prepare the Stewed Chicken

1. Season the chicken with garlic, onion, bell pepper, tomato, thyme, salt, pepper, and recado.

2. Heat oil in a pot and brown the chicken pieces on both sides.

3. Add the seasoned vegetables and soy sauce to the pot.

4. Pour in water, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce thickens.
   

Serving Suggestion:

Plate the rice and beans alongside the stewed chicken. Add fried plantains, coleslaw, or potato salad for an authentic Belizean experience. A splash of Belizean hot sauce adds the perfect finishing touch!

Rice and Beans with Stewed Chicken embodies the spirit of Belizean culture—rich, comforting, and full of flavor. It's a must-try dish for anyone looking to experience the warmth of Belizean hospitality through food.