As a result of the country’s multifaceted culture which is a mix of French and African influences, Haitian cuisine is very diverse and unique. Breakfast in Haiti is not just a time for a meal, it is an occasion for exciting and hearty flavors that draws both families and communities together. This article immerses in authentic Haitian breakfast dishes that showcase the ingredients and techniques that make it an integral part of the Haitian culture in the morning. Be it a case of trying out something new or a case of reminiscing about the old, these recipes will help you get a flavour of the beautiful Haitian lands.
What are some traditional Haitian breakfast dishes?
Labouyi Bannann: Traditional Haitian porridge made out of plantains
Mashed green bananas, some milk, and a sprinkle of spices make a classic sweet dish best served in the morning called Labouyi Bannann. It’s a perfect meal for those who don’t like their mornings too sweet as a dash of sugar or condensed milk does the job. It doesn’t matter where you are in Haiti, Labouyi Bannann has maintained a rich taste which has probably made it a part of the country’s culture.
Haitian Spaghetti: Spaghetti for breakfast! Who would think of that
Never in my life have I ever thought spaghetti could be an enjoyable breakfast meal. Deep fried spaghetti topped with some veggies and tomato sauce while mixed with delicious spices is absolutely surprising to the taste buds. And don’t even get me started on the protein, a few sausages, smoked herring, or hotdogs do not know a single person who doesn’t like these. The only bad part is being an adult, kids get to enjoy being able to have breakfast with a unique flavor. I loved every single bite I had as it got me through the day.
Eggs and Plantains: Robust breakfast option for Haiti
Labouyi Bannann is a favorite for me too. It is so creamy with rich tastes and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. So Haitian Spaghetti always manages to impress me with its spices infused history, and it never ceases to amaze me with how they incorporate sausages or smoked herring, even eggs into dishes. And without fail, there are always eggs and plantains for breakfast. I am truly in love with all these dishes as they showcase the heart and soul of gair’s cuisine.
How do you make Haitian plantain porridge (Labouyi Bannann)?
This is a recipe for Plantain Porridge
For this Labouyi Bannann, or Haitian plantain porridge, gather the following ingredients: green plantains, milk, sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. The first step is to peel a ripe plantain and blend it with water till it turns smooth. Now, transfer the mixture to a medium heated pot and stir it on low heat so the porridge does not form lumps. Combine the milk and sugar with the other ingredients and keep stirring until the mixture reaches the desired thickness. Serve while warm for an enjoyable porridge.
Best tips for getting the God-like consistency
To get the perfect Labouyi Bannann, the proportion of the plantain mixture and that of the liquid has to be on point. I recommend you to add plantains in a blender and mix them till it’s smooth to avoid any pieces of the plantain in the porridge. Now when you cook it, for a while the porridge may get thick, but keep stirring so that it doesn’t stick to the bottom or get lumpy. A good moderate amount of milk can also be adjusted in, make sure to insert it in small amounts so you don’t lose control of the consistency. If something does go out of hand, like the porridge getting too thick, you can add some hot water but gradually. Always remember to take your time! Medium or low heat and constant attention to mixing ensure that the Labouyi Bannann achieves that desired silky texture.
Extra tips for customizing and making it flavorful
Labouyi Bannann has a longstanding recipe, it’s been around for centuries. Luckily, there’s a lot of customization available. One of my favorites is pouring in some spices or ingredients that give it a nice kick, makes the dish mine. You can try ground cloves along with some almond extract. Adding things like coconut milk or simply top the porridge with raisins, nuts, or shredded coconut also go a long way! There are all these countless options that work for me and a lot of other people, so don’t fret, go ahead give it a try!
What’s the secret to delicious Haitian eggs and plantains?
Choosing and getting ready the plantains
Picking the ideal plantains is important to the process, and for a less bitter taste one must choose the fully ripened yellow plantains with some black dots on them. For cleansing purposes, first cut off both ends and slice off the peel of the banana, afterwards remove the peel completely by hand. Making even sized slices helps fry them evenly. Frying them in some oil ensures they become soft and turn golden brown, which can enhance the taste of the egg casseroles.
Eggs: Here’s how to Prepare Them Haitian Style
The first step to making delicious Haitian eggs is to beat the eggs in a bowl. The goal is to completely merge both egg whites and yolks. Once this is done, add a little oil or butter to your frying pan and place it on medium heat. Next, add diced Onions, Bell Peppers, and Tomatoes to the pan in order to sauté them. These specific ingredients will act as flavor sources during the stage. One could also use minced garlic, thyme, or chopped parsley for additional flavor. After the vegetables have softened, pour the beaten eggs into the pan and mix all of the ingredients together to create a uniform color. The consistency one should aim for is soft and moist, so don’t overcook the eggs. A pinch of salt or hot sauce can be used to further improve flavor if needed. It is best to eat these eggs alongside Fried Plantains for an original Haitian breakfast.
Haitian Seasoned Eggs And Plantains
A traditional meal could have been easily contained as a value dish but owing to the spices and seasonings , Haitian eggs and plantains turned into a master piece . Young authentic Hatians use spice combinations giving them an earthly flavor, parsley and thyme are common from this blend. All things considered, it is devoid of spice but the treatment of scotch bonnet pepper or a splash of hot sauce would do it. And yes, when you want to elevate the taste, never lose sight of the bouillon cubes or the seasoned salt. These enhancements would bring about the fried plantains’ delicate sweetness together with the eggs rich in savor to create an attraction for your taste buds.
Can you share a recipe for Haitian French toast?
Ingredients and step-by-step instructions
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread (preferably slightly stale)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Butter or oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sugar until well combined.
- Dip the bread: Submerge each slice of bread in the mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated but not overly saturated.
- Fry the bread: Heat a small amount of butter or oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Fry each slice of bread for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Serve: Serve the Haitian French toast warm, optionally drizzled with syrup and topped with fruit or powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Haitian twist on toppings and sidings
It is a great breakfast since people are used to the flavors but with some hint of a Haitian flavor. For this, you will need some basics such as bread, eggs, evaporated milk and some spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg. The process begins with making bread, then frying it in a batter that has a one-of-a-kind flavor. What I find most interesting in this recipe is the mixing of ‘sweet’ and ‘spicy’ tastes and the option to decorate it with tropical fruits and syrup, which is very popular in Haiti. I hope this aids, and believe me, you will also like the make and take of this dish!
What are some quick and easy Haitian breakfast ideas?
Mayi Moulin – Haitian Cornmeal Porridge
Mayi Moulin or Haitian cornmeal porridge is a nutritious and delicious breakfast option that is easily prepared. It consists of finely ground corn meal mixed with water or milk and some salt , butter and sometimes star anise or even cinnamon to spice it up . You can sweeten it even more with condensed milk or add some savory dishes such as eggs or avocado to have a complete meal.
Haitian Style Avocado on Toast
Haitian style avocado on toast makes a healthy and filling breakfast. Just mash ripe avocado with some salt and fresh lime juice, then spread it on toasted bread. For a Haitian style twist, top it with thinly sliced pickled onions or szpir and enjoy the fillings that complement it well.
Ideas for Lunch: Making Transformations to Dinner
Haitian cornmeal porridge (Mayi Moulin) is my number one option for breakfast quickly because it is easy to prepare but satisfying. Making it is relatively simple as it requires me to combine water or milk and add some salt, a pat of butter and sometimes, cinnamon. Another favorite of mine is Haitian-style avocado on toast—a dish that can easily be prepared by spreading mashed avocado, lime juice, and salt onto bread slices and roasting the bread until golden brown. If I have more time, I might put some pikliz on as well.
Haitian Cornmeal Porridge
Equipment
- 1 Medium saucepan
- 1 Wooden spoon or whisk
- 2 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Bowl for serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup sugar adjust to taste
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Begin by combining the cornmeal and water in a bowl, stirring to avoid lumps.
- Pour the mixture into a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the coconut milk, cinnamon stick, and a pinch of salt, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
- Allow the porridge to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring regularly until it thickens.
- Stir in the evaporated milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and nutmeg. Adjust sweetness as needed.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are well combined and the porridge reaches a creamy consistency.
- Remove the cinnamon stick, and serve warm in a bowl.
Notes
This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated with a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture.
Reference sources
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How is corn milled in Haiti for breakfast?
A: Mais Moulin is one of the most well-liked breakfast meals for Haiti people. It is a nutritious dish that includes coarse corn kernels, with water and sometimes milk, sugar, and flavors added to it. It is served mixed in a blender and flavored with spices. One variant is Mais Moulin ak Zepina, which includes spinach.
Q: Do Haitians have a specific way of cooking plantains in the morning?
A: Yes, there is a specific way of doing it. Plantains do not grain and do not form part of the population’s diet. Whipping cream is made from yellow ripe bananas that are then heated in a fryer until they turn brown. You can boil or pound the bananas if you want to make a dish called “banane peze.” Baarambana that is greens are then acclaimed, or the Griyo, but that’s rare. Another way is to make a savory dish out of plantains that does contain grain; pea served with rice.
Q: Any Haitian breakfast cuisine using ground beef or beef liver?
A: Yes, ground beef and beef liver are sometimes incorporated into Haitian breakfast dishes. A pan-fried version of beef liver is well known as ‘Fwa’ which is also seasoned with a variety of spices including onions, peppers and Maggi. This dish is often eaten with bread or plantains so it can be a good high protein breakfast option.
Q: What does a Haitian who is always running out of time have as breakfast in a hurry?
A: A Haitian breakfast option that is simple and relatively fast to make is “Spaghetti Recipe”, which may sound strange but it is well liked by many. Boiling the noodles and adding fried onions and tomato paste along with some hotdogs or sausages is how it is made. This breakfast is wholesome and filling as well and best for busy mornings because it does not take a lot of time to prepare.
Q: Are there any Haitian cuisines that include oats porridge as part breakfast?
A: It is not a core breakfast food in Haiti Mozambique, but adding it to breakfast options is gaining popularity in Haiti among the health enthusiasts. It is usually made with milk, sweetened with sugar and sprinkled with cinnamon, and fresh topped bananas. Some sauces include a pinch of star anise or other Haitian seasonings for more taste.
Q: How do Haitians usually consume eggs for breakfast?
A: This is probably the most basic question when dealing with breakfast in Haiti. Eggs are a staple food and they can be placed in many ways. Scrambled with some onions or peppers added, or even omelette with some cheese on top is quite the hit there. Boiled eggs with bread or plantains are consumed by other Haitians as well. Haitians can even turn this into an unchallenging fry-up by mixing in some sausages or bacon.
Q: What about the vegetarians, are there any vegetarian dosa options?
A: There are vegetarian Haitian breakfast options, yes. Mais Moulin ak Zepina (corn flour shake with spinach) is a very rich vegetarian meal and is a tasty vegetarian option. Another dish is ‘Labouyi Bannann’ but you have to be careful about the milk content as it is an option for breast fed children. Another modern twist is avocado toast on Haitian bread, this serves today’s coffee lovers as a nice light meal before their big breakfast.
