Haitian Spaghetti is a traditional dish that's part of Haitian culture and brings a rich blend of flavors to the table. Growing up, I often felt tired of having it frequently, especially when we started using jarred sauce like Ragu. But as I got older, my preferences changed, and I came to appreciate this dish. It really stands at the forefront of Haitian cuisine, showcasing its unique mix of ingredients and spices. This recipe can be made in various ways, giving everyone the chance to customize it to their taste.

Haitian Spaghetti Recipe

This authentic dish is not your typical saucy pasta. It's more on the dry side, absorbing all the rich, tomato-based goodness. You can make it with chicken or shrimp to add a different kind of flavor. For a more hearty meal, smoked, dried fish like herring or aronson can be used. The meat is often boiled and added to the pasta, giving it a unique, comforting taste.

This recipe also calls for extra virgin olive oil, which is a healthier choice compared to vegetable oil. Don't forget the herbs and spices like thyme and garlic that make the Sunday Tomato Sauce so mouthwatering. If you like a little kick, add a scotch bonnet pepper for a bit of spicy flavor.

A Balanced Meal

What makes Haitian Spaghetti special is how it can be a one-pot meal, perfect for busy cooks. It's a true lifesaver when you need a balanced dinner that’s easy to prepare and clean up afterward. The thin spaghetti noodles cook quickly and absorb all the delicious simmered sauce, giving a satisfying texture. It's also a great option for kids because it's a kid-friendly dish, and you can easily customize it by adding more veggies for a healthier touch. Whether you serve it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!

What Is Haitian Spaghetti?

Haitian spaghetti is a unique and flavorful dish that comes from Haiti. It's made with thin spaghetti, mixed with red and green bell peppers, and green onion. One of the key ingredients that gives it a distinctive flavor is the scotch bonnet pepper, which adds a spicy kick. The tomato sauce and Haitian epis—a special blend of herbs and seasoning—bring all the ingredients together, making every bite delicious.

You can enjoy this dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, as it's full of veggies and gives you plenty of energy to keep you going throughout the day. I love how it not only keeps me satisfied but also brings a taste of Haitian culture to my kitchen.

What Can I Substitute for Haitian Epis?

If you're making a Haitian spaghetti recipe and find yourself without epis, don’t worry—you can still create a delicious dish. Epis is a key seasoning in Haitian cooking, giving the food its rich and savory flavor. But if you’re in a hurry or don’t have the ingredients to make it from scratch, you can use a substitute that’s already in your pantry. I’ve been in this situation myself, and I find that dry Creole seasoning works wonders.

It has a similar blend of herbs and spices that bring out those authentic flavors. Another good alternative is Cajun seasoning, which adds a bit more kick but still complements the dish beautifully. Just sprinkle these into your pot as the pasta cooks, and you’ll still have that comforting taste of home.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this delicious Haitian spaghetti recipe a day or two in advance, and it actually tastes better the next day. I often prepare it ahead, especially when I have a busy week, and find that the flavors deepen over time. The spices and sauces really blend well when given that extra bit of time, making the dish even more satisfying. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this method is a perfect way to free up time without compromising on taste. Trust me, when you reheat it, you'll notice how much richer and heartier it becomes after sitting for a day or two.

Cooking Considerations and Tips for Making This Recipe

When making Haitian spaghetti, there are a few things to keep in mind to get the best flavor and texture. Start by choosing your protein wisely. You can use chicken sausage or turkey as great halal-friendly options. These proteins add a nice richness to the dish. If you want to go a different route, adding some sardines or even smoked herrings can bring a unique twist.

Haitian spaghetti isn’t meant to be a saucy dish, so make sure to mix it well, allowing the sauce to evenly coat the spaghetti. For the base, instead of tomato paste, I love to use canned fire-roasted tomatoes, which add a slightly American touch but work well in the recipe. If you're looking for a low-carb option, you can swap the pasta for spiralized zucchini. Top the finished dish with hard-boiled eggs, green onions, and grated parmesan cheese for extra layers of flavor.

Don’t forget to add a bit of pikliz for that authentic Haitian kick, as many folk like to elevate their meal this way. For me, I’m the kind of guy who likes eggs on everything, so I always add one more on top.

Ingredients

• 16 oz Spaghetti
• 4 - 6 Hotdogs or 8 oz Sausage, sliced
• 1 Onion, sliced
• 1/2 Green Bell Pepper, sliced
• 1/2 Red Bell Pepper, sliced
• 3 - 4 tbsp Epis (Haitian seasoning base)
• 1 Chicken Bouillon Cube
• 1/2 tsp Adobo
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 1/2 to 1 Scotch Bonnet or Habanero Pepper, minced (optional for spice)
• 1/2 cup Reserved Pasta Water
• Salt, to taste

Substitutions

• If Epis is unavailable, you can substitute it with a mixture of minced garlic, onions, bell peppers, parsley, thyme, and olive oil.
• Any type of sausage can be used in place of hotdogs based on preference.

Method

Prepare the Ingredients:

• Slice the hotdogs or sausage into small bite-sized pieces.
• Slice the onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper.
• Mince the Scotch Bonnet or Habanero pepper if using.

Cook the Spaghetti:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

• In a large skillet or the same pot used to cook the spaghetti, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the tomato paste and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
• Add the sliced hotdogs or sausage to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add the Epis and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.
• Stir in the sliced onions, green bell peppers, and red bell peppers. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
• Add the garlic powder, adobo, and minced Scotch Bonnet or Habanero pepper if using. Stir well to combine.

Combine and Finish:

• Dissolve the chicken bouillon cube in the reserved pasta water, then add this mixture to the skillet.
• Bring to a simmer, allowing the sauce to fully dissolve and blend together, about 2 minutes.
• Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta thoroughly with the sauce.
• Mix everything until the spaghetti, hotdogs or sausage, and vegetables are well combined and heated through.

Serve:

• Serve the spaghetti hot, garnished with additional sliced green onions if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: None

Additional Info About Haitian Spaghetti Recipe.

Here is some additional information that you may have to know about Haitian Spaghetti Recipe.

Health Benefits:

• Vegetables: This recipe includes bell peppers and onions, which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
• Protein: Using sausages or hotdogs adds a source of protein to the dish.
• Whole Grains: Opting for whole grain spaghetti can increase the fiber content, aiding in digestion.

Notes:

• For a spicier version, use the entire Scotch Bonnet or Habanero pepper.
• Adjust the salt and spices to your taste preference.
• This dish is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal, with an option to add more vegetables like tomatoes or carrots for additional nutrients.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~350-400
• Protein: ~10-12g
• Fat: ~15-18g
• Carbohydrates: ~45-50g
• Fiber: ~2-4g

Equipment:

• Large Pot for boiling spaghetti
• Large Skillet or Saucepan
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Measuring Spoons

Serving Suggestions

To enjoy Haitian spaghetti at its best, serve it right after it comes off the hot stove. The rich flavors blend perfectly when the dish is still warm, making it a comforting choice for any meal. Pairing it with a baguette brings out the savory elements, but adding a slice of dark rye bread gives it an earthy twist. A grinder salad on the side can add a fresh crunch, enhancing the overall experience. If you're in the mood for something sweet, try some homemade caramel as a delightful treat. To balance the flavors, pour yourself a cool glass of huckleberry lemonade; it's a refreshing way to cleanse the palate and enjoy this hearty dish to the fullest.

Storing Freezing and Reheating

When you make Haitian spaghetti, it's a great idea to store any leftover in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can put it in the fridge if you plan to eat it in the next 3-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. This dish actually tastes even better the next day, so you can make it in advance if you have a busy schedule. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it on the stove-top over medium heat until it's hot, or use the microwave if you're in a hurry. This makes it super easy to have a delicious meal anytime without much fuss.

Recipe Tips & Tricks

Making Haitian spaghetti is a delightful experience that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. The key to a perfect dish lies in a few simple tips. First, ensure your pasta is cooked just right – aim for al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when you’re heating it up in the sauce later. If the sauce turns out a bit too thick, you can easily fix it by adding a few tablespoons of the water left over from cooking the spaghetti. This keeps the sauce smooth and helps it coat every strand of spaghetti beautifully.

Garnishes can really elevate the dish and make it look as good as it tastes. Consider adding sliced avocado or a boiled egg on top, which are typical and pretty choices that bring a lot of extra taste and color. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top. This simple addition not only adds a great touch of color but also enhances the overall flavor of the spaghetti. Just remember not to overcook the pasta to keep the recipe perfect every time.

Recipe Variation

When making Haitian spaghetti, there are many ways to adjust the recipe to fit your taste. If you prefer not to use spicy ingredients, feel free to skip the scotch bonnet. Even without these hot peppers, the dish will still have an amazing taste, rich in flavors and textures. You can also switch up the type of meat used in the recipe. Instead of the usual options, consider using ground beef, turkey, or even lamb to give a different depth to the dish.

These choices bring a unique flavor profile while keeping things interesting. For the pasta, don’t feel tied to one type; you can easily swap out the traditional pasta for penne or linguine, both of which work great with this recipe. This flexibility allows you to create a meal that suits your preferences while still keeping the essence of Haitian cuisine.

Can I Make This Recipe Without the Scotch Bonnet Pepper?

Yes, you can make Haitian spaghetti without the scotch bonnet pepper. It adds a spicy kick, but if you prefer it milder, you can omit it. The dish will still be flavorful and comforting, especially if you use other mild seasonings to keep that authentic touch.

What is the history of Haitian spaghetti?

Haitian spaghetti is a dish developed during the US occupation of Haiti between 1915 and 1934, when American foods like ketchup were introduced and blended with local flavors. Though items like hot dogs were included, some versions now use alternatives. It's considered a comfort food, reflecting Haitian cuisine's adaptability.

For what meal of the day is spaghetti served in Haiti?

In Haiti, spaghetti is a popular breakfast choice, known for being filling and quick. Made with boxed or dried pasta, it often includes sausages, tomato paste, and spices, with some adding smoked flavors. Ketchup is also sometimes used, making this flexible dish a Haitian favorite to start the day.