What Spices do the Haitians use?

Haitians use various spices and seasonings to enhance the flavor of their cuisine. Here are some commonly used spices in Haitian cooking:

1. Dried thyme (Thymes Secs):

Dried thyme is a staple spice in Haitian cooking. It is used in many dishes to add a warm and aromatic flavor, especially in meat, fish, and soup preparations.

2. Epis:

Epis is a versatile spice blend that forms the base of many Haitian dishes, including rice, beans, stews, and meats. It typically consists of thyme, green onions (or shallots), garlic, bell pepper, parsley, and sometimes habanero pepper.

3. Maggi Seasoning:

Maggi Seasoning is a widely used commercial seasoning in Haiti. It is a concentrated liquid (similar to Worcestershire sauce) that enhances the flavor of various dishes, including rice, beans, and meat preparations.

4. Pickling Spice (Piment Doux):

Pickling spice, also known as "Piment Doux" in Haitian Creole, is a blend of spices, including allspice, cloves, cinnamon, and other aromatic spices. It is commonly used in seasoning meats and making marinades.

5. Ground Black Pepper (Pwa Piiman Noyir):

Ground black pepper is widely used in Haitian cuisine to add a spicy and slightly pungent flavor to dishes.

6. Bouillon Cubes:

Bouillon cubes are a convenient way to add flavor to many dishes. Common flavors used include chicken, beef, and vegetable bouillon.

7. Scotch Bonnet Pepper (Bonnet):

Scotch Bonnet pepper, also known as "Bonnet" in Haiti, is commonly used in Haitian cooking to add intense spiciness to dishes.

8. Curry Powder (Kari La Poud):

Curry powder, widely known in Haitian Creole as "Kari La Poud," is often used in rice, stews, and meat preparations to impart a rich and savory aroma.

9. Garlic Powder:

Garlic powder is a convenient way to add garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic cloves. It is used in a variety of dishes, from rice and beans to meat marinades.

10. Onion Powder:

Onion powder serves a similar purpose to garlic powder, providing an onion flavor without the need for fresh onions.

These spices and seasonings play a crucial role in creating the distinctive flavors and aromas that Haitian cuisine is known for. They are used in various combinations to impart a rich, savory, and often spicy flavor to Haitian dishes.