Haitian Cuisine: 10 Must-Eat Drinks and Desserts for an Authentic Christmas
Christmas in Haïti is not limited to festivities and traditional songs. It is also an explosion of flavors, with typical desserts and drinks that delight the taste buds and add a unique touch to the celebrations. Discover 10 must-haves of Haitian gastronomy for an authentic and gourmet Christmas.
Haïti1. Dous Makòs
A true emblem of Haitian confectionery, dous makòs is a sweet dessert made from condensed milk, sugar and spices. This tricolor fudge, originally from Petit-Goâve, is appreciated for its melting texture and deliciously rich taste.
Present on all tables during the holidays, it is often shared as a sweet that symbolizes conviviality.
Haïti2. Pain Patate
Pain patate is a traditional dessert prepared with sweet potatoes, coconut milk, spices, and sometimes raisins. Its soft texture and warm aromas make it a favorite during Christmas celebrations.
Served warm, this cake is a true ode to sweetness and a must-have for festive evenings in Haiti.
Haïti3. Bonbon Syrup
With its intense molasses flavor and slightly crunchy consistency, bonbon syrup is an artisanal treat that recalls the flavors of yesteryear. Prepared with cane sugar, ginger, and spices, this dessert is both simple and rich in flavor.
Its popularity during Christmas reflects Haitians’ attachment to culinary traditions passed down from generation to generation.
Haitian Pea Broth: A Tradition to Relive
Once a staple in Haitian homes, pea broth was a true culinary tradition, served almost every Saturday. This nourishing and comforting dish brought families together around the table, offering an explosion of flavors and essential nutritional intake. However, with changing eating habits and the growing influence of fast food, it is prepared less and less by the new generation, at the risk of falling into oblivion.
Haitian pea broth is a thick soup prepared with red or black peas, simmered for a long time until they obtain a velvety texture. This broth is then seasoned with local spices such as garlic, thyme, parsley and cloves, then garnished with vegetables such as carrots and spinach. Some variations add pieces of meat, often beef or pork, and small dumplings called "dombrés" "bòy", which give it even more consistency.
So why not revive this tradition and prepare a good pea broth this Saturday, like our grandparents did?
Haïti4. Akasan
Akasan is a creamy, slightly sweet drink made from corn flour, milk, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Consumed hot, it is ideal for cool December evenings.
It is often shared with family, creating moments of complicity around this comforting and nutritious drink.
Haïti5. Kremas
No Christmas celebration in Haïti is complete without the famous kremas. This creamy blend of condensed milk, coconut milk, rum, and spices is a festive drink par excellence.
Its sweet and slightly alcoholic taste makes it a real treat, appreciated by young adults as well as elders.
Haïti6. Konparèt
Originally from the South of Haiti, konparèt is a dense and spicy pastry made with flour, coconut, and ginger. With its strong taste and unique texture, it is perfect to accompany a cup of tea or coffee during the holidays.
Its longevity as a traditional dessert is a testament to its cultural importance and irresistible character.
Haïti7. Tablèt Cocoye
Tablèt cocoye is a treat made with grated coconut, sugar, and sometimes spices like vanilla. This crunchy dessert is both simple to prepare and extremely tasty.
Ideal for snacking between meals, it is one of those little sweets that reminds us of childhood and shared moments of happiness.
Haïti8. Pistach Tablèt
Similar to the cocoye tablèt, but made with peanuts, the pistach tablèt is an irresistible treat. With its mixture of caramelized sugar and roasted peanuts, it combines crunch and deliciousness.
Very popular during Christmas, it is often offered as a gourmet gift.
Haïti9. Chadeque Jam
Chadeque jam, prepared from Haitian grapefruit, is a slightly bitter and sweet treat. Spread on bread or eaten with a spoon, it brings a refined touch to any Christmas meal.
Its artisanal preparation and unique taste make it a true culinary treasure.
Haïti10. Bonbon Amidon
Bonbon amidon is a delicate dessert, made from corn starch, milk and sugar. Its melting texture and slightly sweet taste make it a subtle sweetness that appeals to all ages.
This candy, often served during special occasions, is a symbol of sharing and generosity.
An Explosion of Flavors for an Authentic Christmas
Christmas desserts and drinks in Haïti are not simple dishes: they tell stories, transmit traditions and bring people together. Each bite is a celebration of Haitian culture, rich in tastes and authenticity.
This holiday season, indulge in these local sweets and discover all the richness of Haitian cuisine through its must-have desserts and drinks. Share them with your loved ones for a memorable Christmas, marked by generosity and gourmet pleasure.