As much as I wanted a play on words, the reality is that the current situation in the world says we should just get to the food! And you can do just that, by purchasing your very own copy of the Ambergris Caye COVID RELIEF Cookbook.
Kimberly Wylie, who via Cypress Canyon Publishing, has quickly cobbled together this Cookbook featuring a wide variety of about 40 Belizean recipes. From appetizers to main dishes and some sides, traditional meals, cocktails, and even some spices, the book features local and international cuisine, and sales from the book go towards the San Pedro Hot Lunch Program.
The hot lunch program is spearheaded by Chef Maresha Reid, owner of Pirate’s Treasure Restaurant and Pirate’s Not-So-Secret-Beach Bar. She also contributed a couple of recipes, including that of her amazing Shrimp Ceviche. Born from the need to provide real, healthy and hot/fresh food to the many islanders who, overnight, lost their jobs in the tourism industry as the COVID-19 pandemic made its way through our region, the program will see a much needed financial boost with each copy of the book that is sold.
Wylie admits the book was put together very quickly, with much enthusiasm and heart, but perhaps a few edits may have been missed. I think it adds to the charm and is so very much Belizean! Getting things done, with any little bumps along the way smoothed over with a smile, a friendly wave and a hug and cocktail or two! There are in total, nearly 100 recipes – of which more than 40 are Belizean dishes. Recipes were provided by local restaurants, chefs, residents, and visitors to the island who have learned to make their own version of Belizean food to remember the country by.
Get your copy by ordering online. Wylie is hopeful that within a few weeks, paperbacks will be available on the island at Beach Basket at Grand Caribe. Remember that your purchase will 100% benefit the hot lunch program!
