Easter is a religious time for many Belizeans, especially Catholics, who see it as a time to strengthen their faith and family bonds through traditional activities.
From Sunday, March 24th to Sunday, March 31st, Christians across the country observe the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The week begins with the Palm Sunday Procession. Roman Catholic Churches in several municipalities re-enact Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Holy Monday’s Procesion del Silencio and Holy Tuesday’s Procesion de Encuentro reflect Christ’s teachings. Good Friday features the Live Passion Play as streets are transformed into the Stations of the Cross, with local actors dramatizing Christ’s trials, tribulations, and crucifixion. Masses are then held throughout the weekend on Saturday and Sunday to celebrate Christ’s resurrection.
Another time-honored Easter tradition in many Belizean households is baking. Serving hot cross buns on Good Friday is a beautiful (and delicious) way to enjoy the day with family, filling the kitchen with sweet and fruity aromas!
Do you feel like putting on an apron and breaking out the mixing bowls? Here is our simple recipe for Cross Buns.
Ingredients:
Dry
* 3lbs flour
* 2 packs of yeast
* Spice seeds
* Raisins
* ½ lb shortening
* 1 cup brown sugar
Wet
* Lukewarm coconut milk
* Vanilla (about one tablespoon)
* Essence of your choice
Preparation Method:
• Add flour, yeast, spice seeds, and raisins into a mixing bowl.
• Add in the ½ lb of shortening, followed by 1 cup of brown sugar.
• Mix everything until incorporated.
• Pour in the lukewarm coconut milk until the dough starts coming together smoothly. You don’t want too much milk to make the dough wet and sticky or too little milk that will make the dough stiff and dry.
• While kneading the dough, add vanilla and whatever essence you have chosen and knead well.
• Continue kneading until the dough is smooth and pliable.
• Roll dough into medium-sized balls and set them on a baking sheet.
• From the excess dough, cut two thin strips and make a cross across each bun.
• Let the dough balls rise – about 20 minutes.
• When the dough has risen, place the baking sheet into the oven at 375oF and let bake for 20-25 minutes.
From attending Easter mass to joining a procession and even just relaxing at home, Easter brings loved ones together as they celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Visit our online calendar of events (www.mybeautifulbelize.com/events/) for more details on all Easter events happening on the island.
