Haitian lalo is an iconic dish of traditional southern Haitian cuisine, particularly popular in the Les Cayes region. Rich in flavor and deeply rooted in the local culinary culture, this dish is prepared with lalo leaves (shrub), pork, and crab, slowly simmered with a blend of Creole spices. Its slightly viscous texture, inherited from the lalo leaves, may be surprising, but it contributes to the dish’s authenticity and creaminess.
In this article, discover the complete recipe for Haitian lalo, with practical tips for successfully preparing this dish like a true Haitian chef. Whether you’re curious to try a traditional dish or want to reconnect with your roots, this recipe offers a true culinary journey to the heart of Haiti.
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- 12 cups dried lalo leaves
- 2.5 lbs sliced pork feet
- 1 kg fresh or frozen crab legs
- 1 lb cubed skin-on pork belly
- 9 cups water
- 1 onion
- 1 bunch fresh parsley
- 4 to 5 sprigs fresh thyme
- 5 garlic cloves
- 2 mild green chilies
- 3 green onions
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes (2 x 67g)
- 90 ml fish sauce (Nuoc-mâm)
- 5 tbsp. 1 tbsp (75 ml) canola or olive oil
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Yield: 6-8 servings
1. Soak the lalo leaves in 8 cups of water for at least 3 hours or overnight.
2. To prepare the spice blend, grind the onion, green onions, parsley, garlic, chicken bouillon cubes, chili pepper, and 4 tbsp. of oil until smooth.
3. Boil the pork feet for 3 to 5 minutes in boiling water to remove any scum.
4. In a large, covered saucepan, add the remaining 1 tbsp. of oil and brown the pork belly pieces with the thyme for 5 minutes. 5. Add the pig’s feet, then mix with the spice mix, fish sauce, and crab.
6. Remove the crab legs, then pour the lalo and soaking water over the pig’s feet and belly. Mix.
7. Return the crab to the lalo with the whole Scotch bonnet pepper. Cover and simmer over medium heat for 2 hours.
- Soak the lalo leaves in water the night before. The liquid will be greenish and viscous; save for cooking.
- After boiling the pig’s feet, remove them and set aside. Do not keep the liquid.
- To brown the pork belly, add the whole thyme sprigs. Remove the thyme sprigs before mixing them with the lalo. - Cover the pan and simmer over medium heat for about two hours to soften the lalo stems and pig’s feet.
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In a digital world largely dominated by Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, Haïti is witnessing the birth of an innovation that could well be a game-changer: Toupatou, a 100% Haitian social network. Designed by a young local talent, this project embodies both the ingenuity of Haitian developers and the desire to create a platform adapted to local needs.
Summer in Haiti, which generally runs from June to September, is a time marked by sunny days, high temperatures, and a lively atmosphere. If you’re wondering what this season is like in one of the jewels of the Caribbean, here’s what you need to know about summer in Haiti.
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Located in the Caribbean Sea, Haïti is often nicknamed "The Pearl of the Antilles". This laudatory title not only reflects the beauty of its idyllic beaches, but also the history, culture and natural wealth of this island nation. Throughout the centuries, Haïti has acquired this prestigious reputation for various reasons, which go beyond its picturesque landscapes. b~Natural Beauty:~b Haïti is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. Its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, majestic mountains and lush valleys make it a dream destination for travelers from all over the world. Generous nature has endowed Haïti with impressive ecological diversity, which has helped shape its image as the pearl of the Antilles. b~Cultural Wealth:~b Beyond its landscapes, it is the richness of Haïtian culture which contributes to its reputation as a pearl. Haïti has a fascinating history, blending influences from indigenous Taino people, European settlers and African slaves. This cultural fusion gave rise to a unique artistic and musical tradition, embodied in expressions such as voodoo, naive painting and compass music. b~Historical Heritage:~b Haïti has played a central role in the history of the struggle for freedom and equality. In 1804, it became the first independent republic in Latin America and the Caribbean, after a revolution led by freed slaves. This courageous act of independence established Haïti as a symbol of resistance and determination, adding a historic dimension to its status as the pearl of the Antilles. b~Natural Resources~b Haïti is abundant in valuable natural resources, which has contributed to its nickname as the Pearl. Mineral-rich mountains, fertile soils and abundant water reserves have made Haïti a land of opportunity. Haïti, the pearl of the Antilles, is much more than just a tourist destination. It is a country whose natural beauty, cultural richness, historical heritage and natural resources contribute to a unique identity. It remains a jewel in the crown of the Caribbean, reminding the world of the strength and resilience of the Haïtian people.
Summer is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for a sunny, cultural and flavorful destination, Jacmel and its surrounding areas in Haïti are the perfect place to discover. Nestled between sea and mountains, this region offers a unique experience combining relaxation, cultural exploration and culinary delights.
The impact of collective and individual trauma on the personal development of young people in Port-au-Prince While writers, actors, dancers, poets, among others, have gratified us with their performances, the master’s degree student in psychology at the Faculty of Human Sciences (FASCH), Lourdya Blaise, spoke with the audience about trauma. Structured around the theme "Youth and Trauma, analysis of the impact of collective and individual trauma on the personal development of young people living in Port-au-Prince between 2010-2024", this conference gave rise to enriching discussions. During this meeting, moderated by Michaël Formilus, Ms. Blaise showed how the events that have taken place in the country have caused cases of trauma among Haitians. According to the student, citing the American Psychological Association, we speak of trauma as a consequence of trauma. The latter is explained by the fact that we feel threatened, whether it is the person in question or their loved ones. However, she specifies that a collective trauma remains depending on the impact that the event has on the individual. To illustrate her remarks, she mentioned the earthquake of January 12, 2010, considered a collective trauma, insofar as it still occupies our minds. This tragedy reminds us of the disappearance of our loved ones and enormous losses. This is the case of a trauma that becomes a collective trauma. For the student, it should be emphasized that when an event occurs, some people are traumatized and others are not. According to him, the violence of armed gangs is not perceived in the same way, says Ms. Blaise. There are people who have fled their homes but are not traumatized. In fact, some people see traumatic situations as a passing event, she says. The speaker also spoke about collective trauma, which, according to him, preoccupies the mind, even if we no longer experience it. It manifests itself in several forms: lack of sleep, fear psychosis, intrusive thoughts, intense heartbeat, etc. Generally, symptoms related to trauma are hard to die. When it persists, it becomes acute stress. To deal with it, we must talk to other people. If the situation persists, acute stress turns into a phase of post-traumatic stress; in this case, we must confide in a trusted person or go see a mental health specialist, she advises. In her presentation, Lourdya Bazile also drew attention to the psychological state of children in these times. According to the presenter, children are also facing this crisis situation, even if they do not talk about it to their parents. As much as adults, children also plan their future. Faced with flouted school years, they become pensive and worried, she stressed. They withdraw. The child who used to be brilliant can become violent and perform less well at school. Parents are called upon to listen to them and understand them. A good moment of exchange, rich in practical advice. The audience participated fully. In turn, the presenter invites them to breathe better and meditate. "We live in a country where worries mix, we must take time for ourselves, do sports, eat well, make sure that the sleeping space is clean and take time for ourselves. There is more than one way to find calm," recalls the psychologist. Gertrude Jean-Louis
At the 47th Ordinary Meeting of the CARICOM Conference of Heads of State and Government, Haïti took an important step by joining the CARICOM Reparations Commission. Dominique Dupuy, Haiti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced this development following her meeting with Rector Fritz Deshommes. On the international stage, Ms. Dupuy stated: “Following my meeting with Rector Fritz Deshommes, regarding the creation of a Working Group at the UEH on Reparations and Restitutions Related to Slavery and Haitian Independence, we have brought the matter to the 47th Ordinary Meeting of the CARICOM Conference of Heads of State and Government, in which I am taking part alongside President Edgard Leblanc Fils.” This Working Group will sit as the Haitian National Committee within the CARICOM Reparations Commission. “Haïti now joins the CARICOM Reparations Commission where this Working Group will sit as the Haitian National Committee,” added Dominique Dupuy. This initiative represents a crucial step for Haiti, marking its active engagement in regional discussions on historical reparations and restitution.
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.
Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.
Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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.
