Haitian Garlic Soup
Haitian Garlic Soup Recipe - Authentic Haitian Delight
Introduction
Haitian Garlic Soup, also known as Soup Joumou, is a traditional Haitian dish that is typically served on New Year's Day to celebrate Haiti's independence. This hearty and flavorful soup is made with garlic, thyme, broth, and other simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious and comforting meal.
History
Soup Joumou has a rich history in Haiti and is deeply rooted in the country's culture and traditions. It is said that during the time of slavery in Haiti, enslaved Africans were not allowed to consume the soup that was reserved for their French masters. However, on January 1, 1804, after gaining independence from France, Haitians celebrated by making and enjoying Soup Joumou as a symbol of freedom and liberation.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Boil garlic and thyme in water or broth for 20 minutes.
- Beat egg at high speed while slowly adding oil in a steady stream.
- Gradually heat the soup and then add the egg-oil mixture, stirring with tablespoons of hot soup.
- Add vinegar and pour the soup into plates over slices of stale or oven-dried bread.
Variations
- Add diced vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a different flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to boil the garlic and thyme for the full 20 minutes to ensure that they are fully cooked and their flavors are infused into the broth.
- When adding the egg-oil mixture to the soup, be sure to do so gradually and stir constantly to prevent the egg from curdling.
- Serve the soup over slices of stale or oven-dried bread to add texture and soak up the delicious broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Haitian Garlic Soup with a side of rice or plantains for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
Boil the garlic and thyme to infuse their flavors into the broth before adding the egg-oil mixture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil instead of olive oil in this recipe.
Make Ahead Tips
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the soup with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve the Haitian Garlic Soup with a side of Haitian pikliz (spicy pickled vegetables) for a delicious and traditional pairing.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
250 per serving
Carbohydrates
15g per serving
Fats
20g per serving
Proteins
5g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This soup is rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.
Alergens
This recipe contains eggs and wheat (from the bread), which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
This soup is a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Haitian Garlic Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for celebrating Haiti's independence or enjoying on a cold winter day. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. My mother had sent me to the market to pick up some ingredients for dinner, and as I wandered through the crowded stalls, I stumbled upon a small, hidden corner where an old woman was selling spices and herbs.
Intrigued by the colorful array of ingredients before me, I struck up a conversation with the woman, who introduced herself as Mambo Marie. She had a kind smile and twinkling eyes, and as we talked, she shared stories of her life and the recipes she had collected over the years. One particular recipe caught my attention - Haitian Garlic Soup.
Mambo Marie explained that Haitian Garlic Soup was a traditional dish often served during celebrations and special occasions. It was believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits, she said. Intrigued by the magical properties of the soup, I begged Mambo Marie to teach me how to make it. With a twinkle in her eye, she agreed, and we spent the afternoon in her tiny kitchen, chopping vegetables, crushing garlic, and simmering a pot of fragrant broth.
As the soup bubbled away on the stove, Mambo Marie shared stories of her own grandmother, a wise woman who had passed down the recipe through generations. She spoke of the importance of cooking with love and intention, of using fresh, local ingredients, and of the power of food to bring people together.
When the soup was finally ready, Mambo Marie ladled out steaming bowls for us to enjoy. The rich aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air, and as I took my first spoonful, I was transported back to my childhood, to the flavors and smells of my homeland. The soup was spicy and comforting, with a depth of flavor that I had never experienced before.
From that day on, Haitian Garlic Soup became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for my family and friends, for holidays and special occasions, and each time I stirred the pot, I would think of Mambo Marie and the wisdom she had imparted to me.
Over the years, I have made some adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own twist with extra vegetables or a dash of hot pepper sauce. But the heart of the dish remains the same - a nourishing, flavorful soup that brings people together and warms the soul.
As I sit here now, stirring a pot of Haitian Garlic Soup for my own grandchildren, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that started it all. It is not just a dish to me, but a connection to my past, to my roots, and to the wonderful people who have shared their knowledge and love with me over the years.
And so, as I serve up steaming bowls of soup to my family, I pass on the tradition, the stories, and the love that have been woven into every spoonful. And I hope that one day, my grandchildren will find joy and comfort in this recipe, just as I have.