If you’re about to head out on one of Belize’s epic adventures, or daydream about a past trip at home, start your day with an authentic typical Belizean breakfast.

What makes a Belizean Breakfast authentic?

A classic Belizean breakfast combines the best of Belize’s colonial history with its Caribbean culture and roots. It all adds up to a tasty ensemble of flavors you won’t find anywhere else in the world. As far as “a mixing pot of culture” goes, key elements like Creole-based Fry Jacks, Maya-influenced Eggs and Chaya, and Yucatan Refried Beans. 

Start with Eggs

First, your breakfast order starts with eggs. You can have them fried, scrambled, in an omelet, or poached. If you’re going for a full Belizean experience, add the Mayan spinach available in Belize, Chaya. Additionally, sautéed Chaya is also a common ingredient in Belizean tamales, pupusas, or soups. 

Add the Extras  

With refried beans adaptable for every meal in Belize, breakfast is no exception. Starting with onions and garlic sizzled in fragrant coconut oil, freshly cooked kidney beans are then simmered to perfection. After, these beans are served blended and hot as a versatile breakfast companion. 

Most Belizeans will choose locally-produced bacon or breakfast sausage. Vegetarian? Instead, try it the Maya way with sliced tomatoes. 

For the “icing on the cake”, add a slice locally-loved Edam ‘Dutch’ Cheese or a wedge of Happy Cow Cheese.

The Main Attraction: Fry Jacks

At almost every breakfast place in Belize, you’ll be given the option of adding tortillas, johnny cakes or fry jacks as your main. What’s the difference? In the US, a johnny-cake is a flatbread made of cornmeal. In the Caribbean, it’s a rich bun similar to a biscuit. Many people stuff johnny-cakes with cheese, meat or other fillings. However, if you want a truly authentic Belizean breakfast, choose fry jacks. Fry jacks are delicate, puffy pieces of fried dough and the star of the show.  

Condiments

Every table in Belize sports a bottle of Marie Sharp’s Hot Sauce. Additionally, this local product is a much-loved staple. On tables countryside, you can also find a bowl of Belizean pico de gallo or a dish of chopped onions in vinegar. These are standard condiments at every meal, even breakfast. 

How to Make Fry Jacks

If you want a taste of Belize in your own kitchen, you can check out our recipe below for fry jacks! Whether you have a day of swimming, fishing, or Maya ruins planned, start your day the Belizean way.