Celebrate Haitian heritage with these dishes

Whether or not an individual traces his or her ancestry to Haiti, there’s no denying Haitian cuisine is uniquely flavorful. Incorporating ingredients like goat meat, cashews, plantains, and spicy peppers, Haitian cuisine has something for everyone.

Fans of Creole dishes may be drawn to Haitian cuisine due to the similarities between the two. But Haitian dishes are distinct from their Creole counterparts.

May is Haitian Heritage Month, making it an ideal time of year for foodies from all backgrounds, and others who simply appreciate a good meal, to give Haitian cuisine a try.

These are some traditional Haitian dishes to try at home or seek out at a local restaurant.

• Legim: Legim utilizes a mix of vegetables that are mashed together, often with beef. Often served with cornmeal or rice, legim typically contains a flavorful array of healthy ingredients, including cabbage, green beans, carrots, and eggplant.

• Joumou: Joumou is another Haitian dish that’s heavy on healthy vegetables. Joumou is a soup that’s traditionally cooked with winter squashes and other healthy favorites like carrots, green cabbage and turnips. Toss in a habanero chile for some extra kick. Joumou typically includes beef and seasonings such as thyme and parsley as well.

• Poulet aux noix: Chicken and cashews take canter stage in this popular Haitian dish. Marinated chicken thighs and legs provide some heft to this popular lunchtime staple, which is served with rice.

• Makawoni au Gratin: Non-foodies may be surprised to learn there are various takes of the beloved American comfort food macaroni and cheese. Makawoni au Gratin is a Haitian comfort food that is made with rigatoni in lieu of elbow pasta and even incorporates some peppers and onions to further set it apart.

• Tchaka: Tchaka is a Haitian stew that’s ideal for anyone looking for a bowl of something hearty. Red beans, squash, corn, and pork combine to make a flavorful meal. Bell peppers and onion can add even more flavor and nutrition.

• Haitian patties: Haitian patties may look like ordinary puff pastries on the outside, but they’re anything but. Stuffed with savory and spicy fillings like beef, onion and habanero peppers, Haitian patties are a delicacy that few can resist.

Haitian cuisine is beloved for a variety of reasons, including its spice factor and inclusion of various healthy vegetables.