Chimole or locally known as “Black Dinna” in Belize is a succulent and delicious black soup that is enjoyed by many Belizeans throughout the country. The soup is easy to make and the black recado that is used in the preparation gives the food its black color. Once you have tasted it, you will always crave it.
Below is the recipe brought to you by our very own Chef Daniel.
Chimole / Black Dinna
Ingredients:
1/4 cup black recado
1 chicken (cut into parts)
2 tablespoons cilantro ( chopped)
2 tomatoes (diced)
2 tablespoons malher ( chicken bouillon)
3 potatoes in cubes
3 to 4 fresh tomatoes
1/2 onion (sliced)
3 garlic cloves (mashed)
Salt and pepper
6 boiled eggs
Method:
Season the chicken with salt and pepper and brown in a hot pot with little oil. Once browned, add enough water to cover the chicken and then add the onions and garlic and potatoes, Cook, over low heat for 30 minutes. Dissolve the recado and the malher (chicken bouillon)and add it to the chicken. Add diced tomatoes and cilantro. Add more water if necessary. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Served hot with boiled eggs and corn tortillas.
If you are visiting Chabil Mar and want to learn about our dining experience, click here: Dining at Chabil Mar.
Few people might think of beer as one of the most enjoyable parts of a vacation in Belize, but the small Central American nation has a proud history of brewing delicious local lagers.
Perhaps the most famous brewer in Belize is Belikin Beer. With their distinctive logo featuring the ancient Maya site of Altun Ha, Belikin is a multi-generational family-owned business based in Ladyville just outside of Belize City. The name Belikin comes from a Maya term for the Belize River, literally meaning “road to the east.” Founded in 1969, Belikin is the largest domestic producer of beer, producing 450 bottles per minute in their state-of-the-art breweries.
Belikin’s beer offerings include:
Belikin Beer – The flagship brew, Belikin Beer is a classic European-style lager with an alcohol content of 4.8%.
Belikin Stout – With a velvety, rich head, Belikin Stout has a delightful smoky taste. Made with German hops, Canadian malt, and cane sugar from Belize.
Lighthouse Lager – A refreshing, crisp beer, Lighthouse Lager is a Canadian Pilsner with a 4.2% alcohol content.
Belikin Premium – With a malty, hearty taste, Belikin Premium is made with two different hops and three different malts.
Guinness Stout – Belikin is a licensed brewer of this classic stout featuring a rich color and assertive bitter overtones.
Belikin also makes a number of seasonal brews, including:
Chocolate Stout – Inspired by a traditional Maya recipe, Chocolate Sout is a creamy beer with a velvety chocolate finish.
Sorrel Stout – Introduced for the first time a few years ago, Sorrel Stout features a careful blend of German hops, specialty malts, and local sorrel.
Other Beers Available in Belize
Beer lovers can enjoy a variety of other brews in Belize, including:
Red Stripe – The Jamaican classic in an iconic rounded bottle.
Heineken – One of the most popular beers in Europe, Heineken is a pale lager with a distinctly crisp finish.
Carib – This refreshing lager is brewed in Trinidad and Tobago.
Dragon Stout – Brewed in Jamaica, Dragon Stout has a rich, velvety head with a lovely dark color obtained from barley.
Enjoy Belizean Beers at Chabil Mar
The bar and restaurant at the award-winning resort of Chabil Mar on the Placencia Peninsula has a full range of Belizean and international beers in stock.
Visitors to the resort can ask the bartender for a recommendation of the best beers to try. The experienced, professional bartenders at Chabil Mar can recommend food pairings and other details about the different beers available in Belize.
When you visit a new place, it’s always fun and helpful to understand the history. Belize is a country with a rich history from the ancient Maya civilization to the arrival of European settlers. Let’s explore six important historical facts about Belize.
1. What’s In a Name?
The name Belize has two possible origins. One theory says it comes from the Mayan word for muddy water, which was belix. This is thought to refer to the Belize River. Another theory suggests it may have been the Spanish pronunciation of a pirate’s surname who made the first Belize settlement. That happened in 1638 and the man’s name was Peter Wallace.
2. Belize Settlers
The ancient Maya flourished in Belize between 1500 BC and 900 AD. European settlers began to move in around 1638 as privateers explored the area. The first group of European settlers were called the Baymen. They were shipwrecked British sailors who decided to settle in the area. They worked in cutting logwood and soon exported it to Europe. Spain and England fought over Belize several times during this period.
3. Battle at St. George’s Caye
In 1798 on September 10th, there was a historic battle between the Spanish troops and the British Baymen. This was part of the war between England and Spain at the time. The Baymen were outnumbered and the odds were strongly against them, but somehow they prevailed and defeated the Spanish troops. That allowed England to take more control of the settlement. Today, the battle continues to be celebrated in Belize as a national holiday.
4. History of Belize Industry
The Baymen left another legacy in the history of Belize’s logwood industry. Logwood was highly prized in Europe at the time. Eventually, logwood export was overtaken by mahogany, which was another highly prized tropical wood. By the early 1900s, Belize exports began to take the form of crops such as sugarcane, bananas and citrus. Today, Belize continues to export mahogany as well as the edible crops.
5. Colonization
The earliest colonizing settlement of Belize was located in the Bay Of Honduras. It was eventually called British Honduras in the early 1800s. It became a Crown Colony in 1871. The original capital of Belize was Belize City, but it was severely damaged by a hurricane in 1961. This caused concern in the government that a coastal location was too risky. The capital trappings were slowly moved over to Belmopan and that was declared the new capital. British Honduras was renamed to Belize in 1973.
6. Disputed Territory
The land of Belize has long been disputed territory with Guatemala. The other country has continued being contentious on land borders, and the dispute is technically unresolved. However, last year, both Belize and Guatemala voted to take the issue to the International Court of Justice to resolve it.
If you’re planning to visit Belize, consider staying at the Chabil Mar in Placencia. Our full-service luxury beach resort offers you the relaxing, tropical vacation you deserve.
Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize Vacation.
September 10th holds a sacred place in Belizean history, commemorating the Battle of St. George’s Caye in 1798. This pivotal moment saw a small but determined group of Baymen, settlers, and slaves rise against a formidable Spanish invasion force. Against all odds, they secured a resounding victory, safeguarding Belize’s path to independence and shaping the vibrant, multicultural nation we know today.
The Battle of St. George’s Caye stands as a testament to the unwavering spirit of courage, resilience, and unity that defines Belize. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who came before, inspiring generations of Belizeans to strive for excellence, embrace their diverse heritage, and work towards a brighter future for their nation.
Every year, on September 10th, the entire country erupts in a jubilant celebration of patriotism and national pride, honoring the heroes of St. George’s Caye and reveling in the unique tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions that make Belize so special. The streets transform into a vivid spectacle of colors, music, and dance, as communities across the nation come together to pay homage to their ancestors and express their deep gratitude for the freedom and independence they enjoy today.
The Battle of St. George’s Caye continues to shape Belize’s national identity and inspire its people to embrace their shared heritage with open arms. From the pulsating rhythms of the Carnival Road March to the tantalizing aromas of traditional dishes, the celebrations offer a captivating glimpse into the heart and soul of Belize – a nation that takes immense pride in its past while looking towards the future with unwavering hope and optimism.
For those seeking an unforgettable experience during this festive season, Chabil Mar, nestled on the picturesque Placencia Peninsula, beckons as a haven of tranquility and luxury. As you immerse yourself in the warm hospitality and breathtaking natural beauty of this award-winning resort, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the dynamic celebrations that mark this momentous occasion.
Whether you choose to join the exuberant revelry in the streets or simply soak in the festive atmosphere from the comfort of your private villa, Chabil Mar provides the perfect backdrop for experiencing the true essence of Belizean culture and heritage. The resort’s commitment to showcasing local traditions and its dedication to providing an authentic Belizean experience ensures that your stay during this special time will be nothing short of extraordinary.
Beyond the celebrations, September 10th underscores the enduring strength and resilience embedded in the heart of every Belizean. It is a day to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look toward the future with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. And for those fortunate enough to experience this special occasion in the enchanting setting of Chabil Mar, it promises to be an unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of Belize – a journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for this remarkable nation.
Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.
September in Belize is synonymous with celebration, culture, and pride. With the approach of Independence Day on September 21st, the country transforms into a festive haven, filled with vibrant colors, music, and unforgettable experiences. 2025 marks the 44th anniversary of Belize’s full sovereignty, and the country is set to celebrate with the theme, “Belize@44: Stronger Together, Rising Forever.”
The Birth of a Nation
Independence Day in Belize is not just a day; it’s a fortnight filled with joyous festivities, all leading up to the big day. With its roots in the triumphant naval battle of 1798 at St. George’s Caye, Belize’s independence has historical significance, making the celebrations even more special. The Battle of St. George’s Caye Day, celebrated on September 10th, is a visual treat filled with patriotic music and national colors.
A Colorful and Melodious September
From the last week of August, the entire country comes alive with marches, parades, concerts, and more. The streets are flooded with red, white, and blue as Belizeans of all ages wear their patriotism on their sleeves.
Live music concerts pepper the landscape, with performances ranging from small local ensembles to large events with top-name acts. Whether it’s indigenous music or international beats, there’s something for every music lover.
A Celebration for Every Taste
The Expo, a two-day marketplace, is a highlight for those keen to experience Belize’s culinary and cultural diversity. More than 17,000 visitors flock to enjoy locally-produced goods, dance, and savor various forms of Belizean cuisine.
Carnival brings an additional splash of color and energy, with street dancing, live music, games, and fun activities. It’s a perfect expression of Belizean culture and a must-see event for any visitor.
Chabil Mar: A Perfect Stay in September
To make the most of your September in Belize, consider staying at Chabil Mar. This stunning resort offers luxurious accommodations and easy access to various celebrations. Nestled amidst beautiful landscapes and coastal views, it’s the ideal place to unwind after a day of reveling in Belize’s rich heritage and lively festivities.
With its unique blend of history, culture, music, and culinary delights, Belize’s September celebrations offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re drawn to historical commemorations or vibrant street festivals, Belize in September promises an unforgettable experience. By choosing Chabil Mar as your base, you’re not just choosing a place to stay; you’re embracing the heart and soul of Belize’s independence celebrations. Don’t miss the opportunity to be a part of Belize@44, a celebration like no other!
Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.
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