Haitian cuisine is rich, bold, and deeply rooted in history, but contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Many iconic Haitian dishes are surprisingly approachable and perfect for a weekend cooking project, even if you’re a beginner.
In this article, we’ll walk through five classic Haitian dishes you can confidently make at home. These recipes use accessible ingredients, simple techniques, and time-tested flavors passed down through generations.
1. Griot (Fried Pork with Citrus & Spices)
Why it’s iconic:
Griot is one of the most beloved Haitian dishes, often served at celebrations, family gatherings, and Sundays at home.
Ingredients
- Pork shoulder or pork belly (cut into cubes)
- Sour orange juice (or lime + orange mix)
- Garlic
- Scotch bonnet or habanero (whole, optional)
- Thyme
- Cloves
- Salt & black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step
- Clean the meat with lime or vinegar and rinse thoroughly. (Photo: cleaned pork cubes)
- Marinate with citrus juice, garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and cloves for at least 1 hour. (Photo: marinated meat)
- Boil the pork in its marinade until tender and liquid reduces. (Photo: pork simmering)
- Fry the pork pieces until golden and crispy. (Photo: crispy griot)
✨ Serve with pikliz and fried plantains for the full experience.
2. Diri ak Djon Djon (Black Mushroom Rice)
Why it’s special:
This dish is deeply associated with northern Haiti and is prized for its earthy flavor and dramatic black color.
Ingredients
- Djon djon (dried black mushrooms)
- Rice
- Garlic
- Onion
- Oil or butter
- Salt
- Optional: shrimp or crab
Step-by-Step
- Soak djon djon in hot water, then strain to keep the black liquid. (Photo: soaking mushrooms)
- Sauté garlic and onion in oil. (Photo: sautéed base)
- Add rice and stir to coat grains.
- Pour in djon djon liquid, add salt, and cook like regular rice. (Photo: rice cooking)
🍚 The result is fragrant, dark rice that pairs perfectly with meat or seafood.
3. Pikliz (Spicy Pickled Vegetables)
Why beginners love it:
No cooking required — just slicing, mixing, and waiting.
Ingredients
- Green cabbage
- Carrots
- Onions
- Scotch bonnet peppers
- White vinegar
- Salt
Step-by-Step
- Thinly slice all vegetables. (Photo: sliced vegetables)
- Mix in a bowl with salt and peppers.
- Pour vinegar until vegetables are covered. (Photo: jarred pikliz)
- Let rest at least 24 hours for best flavor.
🌶️ Pikliz adds crunch, heat, and brightness to almost any Haitian meal.
4. Bannann Peze (Twice-Fried Plantains)
Why it’s a must:
Crispy outside, soft inside — and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- Green plantains
- Oil for frying
- Salt
- Water (for flattening)
Step-by-Step
- Peel and slice plantains into thick rounds. (Photo: sliced plantains)
- Fry once until lightly golden.
- Flatten each piece gently. (Photo: flattened plantains)
- Fry again until crisp and golden. Sprinkle with salt.
🍌 Serve as a side or snack with pikliz or garlic sauce.
5. Sos Pwa (Haitian Bean Sauce)
Why it’s comforting:
Sos pwa is the heart of many Haitian meals — especially served over rice.
Ingredients
- Dried black or red beans
- Garlic
- Onion
- Thyme
- Oil
- Salt
- Optional: epis (Haitian seasoning base)
Step-by-Step
- Boil beans until soft. (Photo: cooked beans)
- Blend beans with some cooking liquid until smooth.
- Sauté aromatics, then add blended beans. (Photo: sauce thickening)
- Simmer until creamy and flavorful.
🥣 Simple, nourishing, and deeply traditional.
Cooking Haitian Food Is Cooking History
Every Haitian dish tells a story — of resilience, creativity, and community. By mastering these recipes, you’re not just cooking food; you’re participating in a living cultural heritage passed down through generations.
Whether you’re Haitian reconnecting with your roots or discovering Haitian cuisine for the first time, these dishes are a beautiful place to start.
