Haitian Soup Joumou
"This traditional Haitian soup recipe includes squash, mea..."
🍲 Haitian Soup Jumu (Squash Soup) 🥣
This hearty and flavorful Haitian soup is traditionally enjoyed during New Year celebrations but is perfect for any occasion. Packed with nutritious vegetables and tender beef, it’s a delightful dish that warms the soul.
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🌍 What Is Haitian Soup Jumu?
Haitian Soup Jumu is a celebrated dish in Haitian culture, symbolizing freedom and independence. Made with squash, vegetables, and meat, this vibrant soup is a staple during New Year’s festivities, representing the joy of liberation.
🧾 Ingredients
**Base:**
- 3 to 4 lbs beef (cut into pieces)
- 1 butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
- 1 buttercup squash (peeled and cubed)
- 1 plantain (sliced)
- 5 carrots (sliced)
- 5 red potatoes (cubed)
- 1 head of cabbage (cut into pieces)
- 2 Roma tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 Maggie cubes
- 1 bag of celery sticks (chopped)
- 3 tbsp Haitian spice (see video for recipe)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 12 cups water (divided)
- Salt to taste
**Optional:**
- 2 jalapeños (punctured with cloves)
- Fresh parsley and thyme (tied together)
- Macaroni or ratoni (for added texture)
- Hot sauce (for serving)
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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Meat:**
- In a large soup pot, add the beef.
- Mix in the Haitian spice, chopped tomatoes, Maggie cubes, parsley, thyme, jalapeños, and 4 cups of water.
- Season with 1.5 teaspoons of salt.
- Cover and cook for 30 to 45 minutes until the meat is tender.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:**
- Cut the cabbage into quarters and wash thoroughly.
- Peel and cube the butternut and buttercup squash.
- Boil the squash in 2 cups of water for about 20 minutes until soft.
3. **Combine Ingredients:**
- Once the meat is tender, add the tomato paste, olive oil, and lime juice to the pot.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. **Blend the Squash:**
- After boiling, puree the squash using a blender or food processor.
- Add the pureed squash back into the soup pot along with 8 more cups of water.
5. **Add Remaining Vegetables:**
- Stir in the sliced plantain, cubed potatoes, chopped celery, and carrots.
- Add the cabbage and macaroni (if using).
- Cover and let it boil for 10 to 15 minutes.
6. **Season and Simmer:**
- Add the remaining jalapeño, crushed Maggie cube, and any additional salt to taste.
- Stir well and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes on medium-high heat until all vegetables are tender.
🍽️ How to Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Pair with crusty bread and a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!
đź’ˇ Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables. Turnips, sweet potatoes, or green beans can be great additions.
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- For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead.
🔥 Why You’ll Love This
Haitian Soup Jumu is not only delicious but also a symbol of cultural heritage. Its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and hearty ingredients make it a comforting dish that brings family and friends together, perfect for any gathering or celebration!