Imaginary City by Prefete Dufaut

Today I decided to celebrate Haiti by making some traditional Haitian cuisine starting with Griyo (Griot), which is a delectable dish made from pieces of pork.  I started yesterday by purchasing a 3lb pork shoulder, picnic style and had the butcher cut it into 3 inch pieces.  I added some herbs and spices to a bowl, cumin, paprika, chili, cumin, salt, pepper, cilantro, oregano, and chopped some garlic and onion then added this all to my pork pieces with a few table spoons of oil and did a thorough massage of the pieces to ensure consistent coating.  I then put in the fridge for an overnight marinading (about 12 hours).  

This morning I preheated the oven to 350 and placed my pork into a very large heavy roasting pan (Le Creuset works well) and placed on center rack.  I’ll cook this for several hours (based on the size/amount of pork) and allow it to get a nice crisp outer crust while maintaining a soft and tender juicy inside.  

Served with this will be a Haitian styled rice and beans.  This will start with a half pound of pinto beans and 4 cups of water.  I’ll cook the beans uncovered to allow the water to evaporate and add more if needed.  The beans will cook with cumin, salt, pepper, cloves, and cilantro.  When the beans are tender I’ll add  2 cups of rice to them and cover.  It takes about 15 minutes for the rice to cook completely. 

Celebration by Haitian Ludovic Simpson

I’ll also create a coleslaw that is a spin on a traditional Haitian salad chou (coleslaw).  I learned this version from a traditional Haitian woman.  I cheat by using the pre-package of coleslaw and add cut onions, bell peppers, garlic, and a very small habanero pepper.  I sprinkle salt and finish with a half cup of white vinegar.  Some call this salad Pikliz.

I’ll finish my celebration with a rum cocktail of brown sugar, vanilla, lime juice and Barbancourt dark Rum. 

One day I hope to learn how to make Tasso!

***** Update *****

Here is a picture of the results of my Haitian Cuisine.

Hungry Traveler makes Haitian Cuisine - click to enlarge