Belizean Escabeche, also known as onion soup, is a flavorful dish from Belize that features chicken or fish, infused with vinegar, spices, and vegetables. Known for its tangy and aromatic profile, this traditional recipe reflects Belize's rich culinary heritage and the influence of Spanish cuisine. Enjoyed under various names across Latin America, Escabeche remains a beloved comfort food that captures the vibrant spirit of Belizean cooking.

Here's a recipe for Belizean Escabeche, an onion soup often served with chicken or fish:

Belizean Escabeche Recipe: Onion Soup with Chicken or Fish

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into serving pieces (or fish fillets, if preferred)
• 6-8 cups chicken or fish broth
• 4-5 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 bell peppers (assorted colors), sliced
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken or Fish:If using chicken, season the pieces with salt and pepper. If using fish, ensure it is cleaned and seasoned with salt and pepper. Set aside.

Make the Escabeche Base:In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly caramelized.

Add Vegetables:Add the sliced carrots and bell peppers to the pot. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.

Infuse Flavors:Pour in the white vinegar, allowing it to deglaze the pot. Add the bay leaves, whole peppercorns, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.

Simmer with Broth:Pour in the chicken or fish broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Cook Chicken or Fish:If using chicken, add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pot and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. If using fish, gently place the fish fillets into the broth and simmer until they are flaky and cooked.

Season and Garnish:Season the escabeche with salt and pepper according to taste. Remove the bay leaves. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

Serve:Ladle the Belizean Escabeche into bowls, ensuring each serving has a mix of chicken or fish, vegetables, and flavorful broth.

Enjoy:Serve this delightful Belizean dish hot and enjoy the savory, tangy, and aromatic flavors that make Belize Escabeche a true culinary masterpiece.

This Belizean Escabeche is a comforting and aromatic dish that captures the essence of Belize's culinary heritage. Enjoy this savory onion soup with chicken or fish for a taste of Central American delight!

Nutritional Values:

It's challenging to provide exact nutritional values for a recipe without specific brands and quantities. However, I can offer some general information based on common nutritional data. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used.

Nutritional Values per Serving (Assuming 6 servings):

Chicken or Fish:

• Chicken (without skin):
• Calories: 165 kcal
• Protein: 31g
• Fat: 3.6g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:Rich in lean protein, essential for muscle development and repair.

• Fish (white fish fillet):
• Calories: 110 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 2.3g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits: High in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.

Chicken or Fish Broth:

Chicken Broth (1 cup):

• Calories: 38 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 1g

benefits:

• Provides essential nutrients and hydration.
• Supports gut health and may have immune-boosting properties.

Fish Broth (1 cup):

• Calories: 30 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

• Provides essential nutrients and hydration.
• Supports gut health and may have immune-boosting properties.

Vegetables:

Onions (1 medium):

• Calories: 46 kcal
• Protein: 1.2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 11g

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Provides vitamins C and B6, essential for immune function and metabolism.

Garlic (1 clove):

• Calories: 4 kcal
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g

benefits:

• Known for its immune-boosting properties.
• Contains allicin, a compound with potential health benefits.

Carrots (1 medium):

• Calories: 25 kcal
• Protein: 0.6g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 6g

benefits:

• Excellent source of beta-carotene, promoting eye health.
• Provides vitamins A and K, essential for bone health.

Bell Peppers (1 medium):

• Calories: 25 kcal
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 6g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting skin health.
• Contains fiber, aiding in digestion.

Other Ingredients:

White Vinegar (1 cup):

• Calories: 48 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits: May aid digestion and contribute to a healthy gut.

• Vegetable Oil (1/2 cup):
• Calories: 960 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 109.5g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits: Source of healthy fats, providing energy and supporting nutrient absorption.

Spices and Seasonings:

Bay Leaves (2 leaves):

• Calories: 5 kcal
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 1.3g

benefits: Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Whole Peppercorns (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 5 kcal
• Protein: 0.2g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 1.1g

benefits: May improve digestion and have anti-inflammatory effects.

Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 3 kcal
• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 0.6g

benefits: Contains antioxidants and may have antibacterial properties.

Garnish:

Fresh Cilantro (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 0.5 kcal
• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0.1g

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and K.
• May have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

Please note that these values are estimates, and actual nutritional content may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it's advisable to consult with a nutritionist or use a nutritional calculator for precise values.