Soup Joumou I

Soup Joumou I Recipe from Haiti with Beef, Chicken, Squash, and More

Region / culture: Haiti | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 2 hours 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Soup Joumou is a traditional Haitian soup that is typically served on New Year's Day to celebrate Haiti's independence. This hearty and flavorful soup is made with a variety of ingredients such as meat, squash, potatoes, and noodles, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Soup Joumou has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century when Haiti gained its independence from France. During the time of slavery, enslaved Africans were not allowed to consume the soup, as it was considered a delicacy reserved only for the French slave masters. However, after gaining their freedom, Haitians began to celebrate their independence by making and enjoying Soup Joumou on New Year's Day.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) cubed beef stew meat
1 lb (454 g) chicken
1 frozen squash
1 boniata
9 spinach leaves
1 malanga or scallops
2 onions, sliced
3 large carrots or some miso broth
6 medium potatoes
0.25 lb (113 g) spaghetti or noodles
3 tsp seasoned salt
2 limes, cut in half
2 tsp thyme
2 tsp parsley
0.5 cup scallions
salt, black pepper, and hot pepper or jalapeños to taste

How to prepare

Clean the meat by rinsing it with hot water and lemon, then place it in a bowl.
Sprinkle seasoning salt over the meat and let it sit for 2 hours.
In a stockpot, bring 3 qt (2.84 liter) of water to a boil and add the meat. Cook until the meat is tender, which should take about 1.5 - 2 hours.
If needed, add more water to the stockpot along with the remaining ingredients, except for the noodles.
Cook for an additional 20 minutes, then add the noodles.
Serve the meat stew in a bowl and enjoy it with a cup of your choice.

Variations

Add carrots or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Use different types of meat such as beef or pork for a unique twist.
Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a sweeter taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to clean the meat thoroughly before cooking to remove any impurities.

- Let the meat marinate in seasoned salt for at least 2 hours to enhance the flavor.

- Add jalapeños to taste for a spicy kick.

- Be sure to cook the meat until it is tender to ensure a delicious and tender soup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Soup Joumou with a side of rice or bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or scallions for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the meat in seasoned salt for added flavor.

- Boil the meat until tender before adding the remaining ingredients.

- Cook the noodles separately and add them to the soup just before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butternut squash or pumpkin instead of frozen squash.

- Substitute chicken broth for vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

- Use any type of leafy greens in place of spinach.

Make Ahead Tips

Soup Joumou can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Soup Joumou in a large bowl and garnish with a slice of lime and a sprinkle of parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Soup Joumou with a side of fried plantains or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Soup Joumou in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Soup Joumou contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in Soup Joumou mainly come from the squash, potatoes, and noodles. These ingredients provide energy and fiber to help keep you full and satisfied.

Fats

The fats in Soup Joumou come from the meat and chicken used in the recipe. These fats provide essential nutrients and flavor to the soup.

Proteins

The proteins in Soup Joumou come from the meat, chicken, and scallops. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Soup Joumou is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and iron. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains meat, chicken, and scallops, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before consuming.

Summary

Overall, Soup Joumou is a nutritious and delicious soup that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Soup Joumou is a flavorful and hearty Haitian soup that is perfect for celebrating Haiti's independence on New Year's Day. With a rich history and a delicious combination of ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Soup Joumou. It was given to me by a Haitian friend who had learned to make it from her grandmother. I was instantly drawn to the rich flavors and vibrant colors of the soup, and I couldn't wait to try making it myself.

I had always loved trying new recipes and experimenting with different cuisines, so I was eager to learn how to make this traditional Haitian dish. My friend walked me through the recipe, explaining each step in detail and sharing stories of her family's traditions surrounding the soup.

She told me that Soup Joumou was a special dish that was traditionally eaten on New Year's Day in Haiti. It was believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year, and many families had their own unique recipe that had been passed down through generations.

The key ingredient in Soup Joumou was pumpkin, which symbolized freedom and independence. It was said that during the time of slavery in Haiti, the enslaved people were not allowed to eat soup made with pumpkin. But on January 1, 1804, when Haiti gained its independence, the newly freed people celebrated by eating Soup Joumou as a symbol of their newfound freedom.

As my friend shared these stories with me, I felt a deep sense of appreciation for the history and culture behind this dish. I knew that I wanted to honor the tradition and make the soup with love and respect for its origins.

I started by gathering all the ingredients - pumpkin, beef, carrots, potatoes, cabbage, onions, and spices. I carefully chopped and prepared each ingredient, following the recipe step by step. The kitchen was filled with the warm, comforting aromas of garlic, thyme, and cloves as the soup simmered on the stove.

As the soup cooked, I couldn't help but think about the generations of women who had made this dish before me. I imagined my friend's grandmother in her kitchen, stirring a steaming pot of Soup Joumou and passing down the recipe to her daughter, who would then teach it to her granddaughter.

I felt a connection to these women, to their strength and resilience in the face of adversity. I knew that by making this soup, I was not just creating a delicious meal, but also honoring a tradition and preserving a piece of history.

When the soup was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of parsley. I couldn't wait to taste it, to experience the flavors and textures that had been carefully crafted over centuries.

As I took my first spoonful, I was transported to Haiti - to bustling markets filled with the sounds of laughter and music, to colorful streets lined with vibrant murals and bustling cafes. The soup was warm and comforting, with a rich depth of flavor that filled me with a sense of joy and gratitude.

I knew that this recipe for Soup Joumou would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a dish that I would make again and again to honor the traditions and stories of the past. And as I sat at the table, savoring each spoonful, I felt a deep sense of connection to my friend, to her family, and to the beautiful country of Haiti.