Introduction:
Hudut is a traditional Garifuna dish from Belize, featuring fresh fish cooked in a rich coconut milk broth, served alongside mashed ripe and green plantains. This comforting and hearty dish is a staple of Garifuna cuisine, known for its creamy texture and delicate balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. Hudut is often enjoyed in coastal communities, offering a taste of Belize’s Afro-Caribbean heritage.
Ingredients:
For the Fish Soup
Fresh fish (snapper, grouper, or barracuda) – The main protein.
Coconut milk – Creates a rich, creamy broth.
Garlic and onions – Adds depth of flavor.
Bell peppers and tomatoes – Provides sweetness and acidity.
Habanero pepper – Adds heat (optional).
Cilantro and thyme – For herbal freshness.
Salt and black pepper – To taste.
Vegetable or fish stock – Enhances the broth’s flavor.
For the Mashed Plantains (Fu-Fu)
Ripe plantains – Adds a natural sweetness.
Green plantains – Provides starch for texture.
Water and salt – For boiling the plantains.
Food Shops Selling Hudut in Belize:
Garifuna Kitchen (Dangriga) – A top spot for authentic Hudut in the Garifuna community.
Ivy’s Restaurant (Hopkins Village) – Serves traditional Garifuna dishes, including Hudut.
Luba Laruga Cool Spot (Punta Gorda) – Famous for fresh seafood and Hudut.
Waruguma (San Pedro, Ambergris Caye) – Offers a delicious version of this Belizean classic.
El Fogon (San Pedro) – Specializes in traditional Belizean and Garifuna cuisine.
Benefits of Hudut:
Rich in Nutrients – Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins from fish and plantains.Flavorful and Satisfying – A balanced mix of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors.
Traditional and Cultural – A dish deeply rooted in Belize’s Garifuna heritage.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free – Suitable for various dietary needs.
Drawbacks of Hudut:
Time-Consuming to Prepare – Requires multiple steps, including making the plantain mash.Perishable Ingredients – Fresh fish and coconut milk have a short shelf life.
High in Calories – The coconut milk and plantains add richness, which may be heavy for some diets.