contact@haitiwonderland.com+509 36184317

Discover

Shopping Cart

What do you eat in Haiti?Haïti
What do you eat in Haiti?
Haïti
  • December 25, 2024
  • | 0

What do you eat in Haiti?

Haitian cuisine is rich and flavorful and is a true reflection of the country’s culture, history and traditions. It combines African, European and indigenous influences to offer diverse and delicious dishes. From everyday meals to traditional feasts, food in Haïti is more than just a way to eat, it’s a cultural experience. Discover with us what they eat in Haiti, and let yourself be seduced by the unique flavors of this Caribbean country.

Read the article in :

French : Qu'est-ce qu'on mange en Haïti ?

Spanish : ¿Qué comemos en Haití?

HaïtiHaïti

Traditional Haitian dishes

In Haiti, meals are often composed of rice, beans, fresh vegetables, meat or fish, all accompanied by tasty sauces. Here are some of the must-have dishes:

- Diri ak pwa (Rice and beans): The national dish par excellence. Rice is cooked with red or black beans, sometimes with vegetables, spices and a little meat to make it even more flavorful. This dish is often served with chicken, pork, or fish.
- Griot: This popular dish is made with pork marinated in a mixture of spices and lemon, then fried until golden brown and crispy. It is often accompanied by pikliz, a spicy condiment made with vegetables and vinegar.
- Tasso: Dried meat, usually beef or pork, marinated in spices, then fried. This dish is often accompanied by rice or vegetables.
- Joumou: A traditional soup eaten on January 1, Haiti’s Independence Day. This pumpkin-based soup is prepared with vegetables, pasta, beef broth and pieces of meat.

HaïtiHaïti

Haitian Fruits and Vegetables

The richness of Haitian nature is reflected in its varied agricultural production. In Haiti, there is a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that are often used in daily meals.

- Mango: The country is full of sweet and juicy mangoes, which are often enjoyed fresh or made into juice or jams.
- Plantain: It is frequently cooked as banana pesée (fried plantain) or served as an accompaniment to main dishes.
- Sweet potato: This tuber is a staple in Haitian cuisine and is found in many dishes, including soups and broths.
- Avocado: Highly appreciated for its creamy texture, avocado is often used in salads or simply served in slices with a little salt.

HaïtiHaïti

Haitian Drinks

Drinks in Haïti are as varied and delicious as the food. Some are directly inspired by local traditions, while others have been influenced by history and exchanges with other cultures. Here are some typical drinks:

- Haitian Rum: Haïti is famous for its quality rum, especially Barbancourt Rum, produced from sugar cane. Rum is a common drink at festivities and social gatherings.
- Fresh Fruit Juice: In Haiti, juices are prepared with local fruits such as mango, lime, passion fruit, or sugar cane. Lime juice is particularly refreshing.
- Akasan: A traditional drink prepared with corn, milk, sugar, and vanilla. It is often consumed for breakfast or dessert.
- Crémas: A creamy, sweet drink made with rum, condensed milk, coconut milk, and spices, often served during holiday celebrations.

HaïtiHaïti

Haitian Desserts

Desserts in Haïti are just as tasty as the main dishes and are often very sweet and flavorful. Haitian desserts are a real treat for the taste buds:

- Dous makòs: A dessert made with cornmeal, milk, and sugar, flavored with vanilla and cinnamon.
- Pain patate: A sweet cake prepared with sweet potatoes, spices, raisins, and coconut milk.
- Konparèt: Small candies made with sugarcane syrup, grated coconut, and sugar, cooked until they take on a firm, melting texture.
- Bonbon sirop: Sweet candies, made with sugar and cane syrup, very popular during the end-of-year celebrations.

HaïtiHaïti

A friendly and festive cuisine

Haitian cuisine is more than just a moment of taste pleasure; it is a way to get together with family and friends. Meals in Haïti are often shared and celebrated, especially during holidays and special occasions such as Christmas, New Year and weddings.

Each dish tells a story, each recipe is passed down from generation to generation. Whether for an everyday meal or a grand feast, Haitian cuisine is a true mirror of hospitality and human warmth.

If you have ever had the chance to taste a Haitian dish, or if you have a favorite recipe, don’t hesitate to share it in the comments!

Haïti / Pot’iwa Pizza: A Culinary Odyssey

Since 2015, Pot’iwa Pizza has conquered the hearts and taste buds of the inhabitants of Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti. Founded by visionaries Jude Vaillant and Rock André, Pot’iwa Pizza has become a true gastronomic icon by offering a unique specialty: smoked herring pizza. This culinary creation has revived childhood nostalgia among many Haitians, marking the beginning of an exceptional culinary adventure. The very name of the company, "Pot’iwa", is a tribute to the Haitian regions where its founders were born. Jude Vaillant, originally from the "Iwa" region, and his accomplice Rock André, native of "Potino", have united their origins to create a company that harmoniously fuses tradition and innovation. Despite the socio-economic challenges that punctuate Haitian daily life, Pot’iwa Pizza is committed to constantly improving its services. This unwavering determination led to the opening of a second branch of the company, this time in the city of Cap-Haïtien, in the north of the country. The inhabitants of this region now have the privilege of tasting the famous herring pizza, previously reserved for the inhabitants of Port-au-Prince. Aware of the importance of protecting its culinary heritage, the company made a strategic decision by filing a patent in the United States to protect its specialty: herring pizza. Jude Vaillant, CEO of the company, shares his vision behind the choice of herring: "In Haiti, our childhood was rocked by a particular flavor, present in many traditional dishes. We decided to bring this flavor to an emblematic dish like pizza, to create a unique culinary experience." Pot’iwa Pizza embodies the passion, nostalgia and perseverance of Haitians for their traditional cuisine. It is a story of flavors and success that continues to seduce palates around the world. For those who want to taste this delicious herring pizza, go to Pot’iwa Pizza, located at 26 boulevard Cap-Haïtien, or contact them at +509-47-30-9090. And for fans residing in Miami, USA, Pot’iwa Pizza is also available at 12485 NE 6th CT, North Miami, FL 33161. To order, call 305-456-5152. Also explore the immersive experience of Pot’iwa Pizza through your smartphone or virtual reality headset, and dive into their mouth-watering menu by visiting the following link: https://haitiwonderland.com/haiti-virtual-reality-ht/ bar--restaurant/haiti--pot-iwa-pizza--virtual-tour/9.

Share
About the Author
Appolon Guy Alain

Full Stack Developer, Créatif, expérimenté, passionné des nouvelles technologies et de l’art.

See other articles from Appolon Guy Alain
Leave a comment

Recently Posted

Plan your trip to Haïti

Haïti, the pearl of the Caribbean nestled west of the island of Hispaniola, offers a captivating combination of natural beauty and rich history. For an unforgettable trip, follow these wise tips to plan your stay. b~Prior Research~b Before you begin your trip, immerse yourself in Haïti’s rich culture, fascinating history, delicious cuisine and top attractions. This prior immersion will allow you to make the most of your stay and connect more easily with locals. b~Ideal time to travel~b Haïti’s mild climate throughout the year makes it an attractive tourist destination at any time. Your choice of period will depend on your preferences. If you’re passionate about cultural festivities, don’t miss the Haïtian Carnival in February, a vibrant celebration leading up to Lent. For lovers of paradise beaches like Labadee, La Côte des Arcadins, and others, summer offers a perfect mix of sun and fun times in crystal clear waters. If spirituality appeals to you, August 15 marks the Feast of the Assumption, a religious celebration marking the Virgin Mary’s ascension into heaven. And also November 1st and 2nd are dedicated to the Day of the Dead. Families go to the cemetery to honor and decorate the graves of their deceased loved ones, creating an atmosphere steeped in memory and tradition. History buffs may choose to visit on national holidays such as National Independence Day on January 1, Flag Day on May 18, and other significant events. b~Choice of Accommodation~b Haïti offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to family-friendly B&Bs. Adapt your choice according to your budget and preferences, favoring local accommodation for a more authentic experience. b~Unmissable Tourist Sites~b Among the gems to explore, discover the majestic Citadelle Laferrière, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, the Sans Souci Palace, the La Visite National Park, the Milot Cathedral, Fort Jacques, the Heroes of Vertières, the Bassin Bleu , the Saut-Mathurine Waterfall, the Marie-Jeanne Cave, Kenscoff and Furcy, as well as the Saut d’Eau Waterfall. Also explore the artistic wealth of Haïti through its artisan markets. b~Taste Local Cuisine~b Haïtian cuisine is a symphony of exotic flavors. Be sure to sample local dishes such as griot and pea-sticky rice at local markets for an authentic culinary experience. b~Local Culture~b Haïtian culture, influenced by a rich history, is diverse and vibrant. Respect local customs, be open-minded and willing to learn. The warmth and hospitality of the Haïtians add a unique dimension to your experience. b~Means of Transport~b Opt for modern means of land transport such as Capital Coach Line, Transport Chic, Sans-Souci Tours, Le Transporteur, Grand Nord. For aerial explorers, easily book your flight with Sunrise Airways. Car rental is also an option for those looking for a more private experience. b~Language and Communication~b Although Haïtian Creole is the main language, French is also widely used. Learn a few basic phrases in Creole to facilitate exchanges and enrich your experience. By meticulously planning your trip to Haïti, you open yourself up to discovering the natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality of this Caribbean gem. Get ready to experience a unique and memorable adventure in Haïti.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed of all our activities and news on Haiti.

Recently Posted

History

History

First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.

Natural beauty

Natural beauty

Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.

Heritage

Heritage

Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culture

Culture

Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.