Belizean Beef Soup Recipe

A Taste of Belizean Heritage

Introduction:
Belizean Beef Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a journey through Belize’s history. Originating from the heart of Belize’s towns and villages, this soup encapsulates the essence of Belizean culture. As you savor each spoonful, imagine the bustling streets of Belize City, the serene landscapes of the Cayo District, and the vibrant festivities of San Ignacio Town. This recipe has been passed down through generations, each adding its own touch, making it a true Belizean treasure.

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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Servings: 6

Belizean Beef Soup Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef shank, with bone
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons seasoned salt (alternative: pink Himalayan salt for a healthier option)
• 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 1 onion, chopped
• 8 cups water
• 4 beef bouillon cubes (alternative: vegetable bouillon for a vegan option)
• 2 medium carrots, coarsely chopped
• 2 ears corn, husked and cut into thirds (alternative: gluten-free corn for those with gluten sensitivity)
• 3 potatoes, quartered (alternative: sweet potatoes for a unique twist)
• 1 small head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges
• 2 bay leaves
• 6 garlic cloves
• 2 tsp of thyme (fresh or dried)

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Belize Beef Soup Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil. Add the beef shank and bones, seasoned with seasoned salt, thyme, and black pepper. Cook until nicely browned.
2. Pour in water, ensuring it covers the meat and bones by about three inches. Let it simmer for approximately one and a half hours, or until the meat is tender.
3. As the meat simmers, prepare your vegetables. In a separate pan, heat a bit of oil and sauté the garlic, onion, celery, and carrots until translucent.
4. Once the meat is tender, add the sautéed mixture and the remaining vegetables to the pot. Cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Remember to add the cabbage and zucchini last, as they only need about 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot, ladling into bowls. Garnish with your choice of cilantro, onion, radishes, lime juice, or habanero slices.
6. Pair your Belizean Beef Soup with steamed rice or warm corn tortillas for a complete Belizean experience.

Measurements:
For our European readers, 2 pounds is approximately 0.9 kilograms, and 8 cups is about 1.9 liters.

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Nutritional Information:
Per serving:
Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 15g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 5g

Serving Suggestions:

We also love to add a squeeze of lime and a fresh sprig of cilantro when we serve this up. Adding a splash of Belizean cortido is also a great choice. The acidity of the cortido or the lime (or both) help cut some of the richness of the beef broth.

This soup pairs wonderfully with a cold Belikin beer or a refreshing glass of horchata, both popular beverages in Belize. For side dishes, consider serving with a Belizean-style potato salad or fried plantains.

Flavor Variations:
Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor profile. For those who like it spicy, add a touch of Belizean hot sauce to the mix!

Tips and Tricks:

• For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight with the seasonings.
• Always choose fresh vegetables for a more authentic taste.
• Leftovers? Store in an airtight container and reheat on the stove for best results.
• If you are making this soup in Belize ask your butcher for beef soup meat, they will provide a medley of very affordable cuts of bones and beef perfect to make a rich Belizean Beef Soup.

Engage with Us:
If you like this recipe you may also enjoy our other authentic Belizean soup recipes.

Tried this recipe? We’d love to hear from you! Share your experience in the comments below. Did you add a personal twist? Let our community know, and together, we can refine this Belizean classic even further.

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