Authentic Belizean Garnaches Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious taste of Belize, then Garnaches are the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings. This traditional street food combines the crunch of fried corn tortillas with the rich flavors of refried beans, tangy salsa, and a generous sprinkle of cheese.
Ingredients:
- 12 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup refried beans (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or queso fresco cheese
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 ripe tomato, diced
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt to taste
- Hot sauce or Belizean Marie Sharp’s pepper sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large frying pan, heat enough oil to shallow fry the tortillas over medium-high heat. Fry each tortilla until crisp and golden brown on both sides. Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to drain.
- While the tortillas are still warm, spread a thin layer of refried beans on each one.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese over the beans while they’re hot, so the cheese melts slightly.
- Top with diced onions, shredded cabbage, and diced tomatoes.
- Season with salt to taste and add a drizzle of hot sauce if you like some heat.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of authentic Belizean flavors!
Cooking Tips:
- To make your garnaches even more authentic, try making your own refried beans from scratch using red kidney beans.
- For added flavor, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice.
- Belizean Marie Sharp’s pepper sauce is a traditional garnachas condiment and can be found in many international grocery stores or online.
This recipe for Belizean Garnaches will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Belize and is perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer when entertaining guests. Ready in just minutes, it’s a delightful way to experience Central American cuisine at home.
Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Serves: 4-6