After being shipwrecked on course to the West Indies, the Garifuna settled in Belize’s southern villages in the early 1800s.
Their blend of African and Caribbean influences created a cuisine around ingredients easily available in the subtropical climate, from cassava to coconuts.
Traditionally, a bowlful of sere lasus is spooned out with a side of cassava bread on 19 November – a national holiday that celebrates the Garifuna’s settlement.
Its popularity means that different kinds are served all-year-round, though.
You can head to Dangriga or Hopkins for a more authentic taster, but even at island resorts in Ambergris Caye you’ll find a contemporary version that will charm even the most traditional villager.
Part of the appeal is its versatility. Switch up the ingredients, as and how you like – any kind of fish can be substituted into this tasty broth, and scotch bonnets will work in place of habaneros.
Sere lasus with hudut may be humble fare, but it certainly captures the vibrant spirit of our nation.