A traditional Soup that celebrates Haiti’s independence

It’s that time of the year again- the time for the harvest of the succulent winter squash and enjoying a hearty Soup Joumou. Regarded as the comfort food for millions of Haitians, we believe this soup is a divine concoction meant for the pleasure of the soul. Prepared using the choicest vegetables- parsley, potato, plantains, carrots, green cabbage, celery and onions along with the piece-de-resistance-beef or pork, this soup has a good dash of most of the essential nutrients as well as carbohydrates.

Joumou is a Creole word derived from giraumon in French, which means “pumpkin,” in English. Around Halloween and fall, varietal pumpkins, specifically suited to Joumou preparation, throngs the sprawling Haitian farmer markets and United States.

Traditionally, Soup Joumou is served with bread on January 1 amid twin celebrations of New Year and Haitian Independence. The soup gained popularity after the successful slave rebellion and subsequent independence because it was associated with the French abundance. During colonial rule, French subjected slaves to inhuman conditions, psychological and physical torture and disastrous work conditions. Often denying them square meals, the slaves were fed leftovers. One of the recipes popular within the bourgeoisie, the Soup Joumou was symbolic of French supremacy, richness and power. The slaves were supposed to not even dream of having it, as it was too rich, wholesome and too good for them. Thus when the Haitian independence finally saw the day, it was marked with the preparation of the most potent and densely symbolic, Soup Joumou.

The practice of incorporating several vegetables as a source of nutrients, pasta or vermicelli as a source of carbohydrates and proteins finds its origin in African cuisine which is known for whipping up scrumptious combination food also known as one pot meals. The recipe for Soup Joumou is easy to follow and wholesome. The chunks of squash are sauteed in a pan, simmered on low heat until they are tender. It is then pureed in a food processor before getting transferred onto the saucepan with additional vegetables and beef for seasoning with garlic, herbs, spices and salt. Pasta or thin vermicelli is also added to impart body and texture to the soup. The sliced aromatic bread, often from a local bakery is served on the side adding another layer of texture to the entire meal. Like we said, it’s a soup for the soul. For a detailed Soup Joumou recipe, check this Haiti Open Soup Joumou recipe to learn more.

There is a wide array of street food that you can enjoy in Haiti and although Soup Joumou should top the list, you can also enjoy authentic preparations of Makawoni au graten which is our very favourite Mac and Cheese with a Haitian twist, Bouillon Soup, Haitian tchaka, Pikliz, Griot among a host of others. No need to restrict your palette to only spicy and savory food as Haiian desserts are their own icings on the cake. You can pick your choice-Pain patate- a super food preparation from sweet potatoes, Doukounou-a delicious cornmeal pudding and Dous makos- a multi flavoured fudge. We see the deluge that just formed in your mouth.

Whenever you are in Haiti, do order Soup Joumou at a restaurant as it is a sign of respect to Haitian ancestry. The locals find it heart-warming and who knows, maybe you could make a Haitian friend along the way. Soup Joumou can be easily crowned as the ‘Comfort Food of Haiti’ as it has all the necessary features. It is healthy, packed with nutrients, prepared easily and has several textures to suit each palette. Haitian folks love to lap up the soup for a lazy Sunday brunch or an early dinner starter. But obviously there are no limits to how you can enjoy your hot bowl of Soup Joumou.