Sabine Sabine

Diri Djon Djon : Haitian black Mushroom Rice

Diri Djon Djon, or Haitian black mushroom rice, is a beloved dish from Haiti that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor. Known for its striking black hue and earthy, umami taste, this rice dish is made with dried black mushrooms (djon djon), which are native to northern Haiti.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup dried djon djon mushrooms (substitute with Maggi cube if unavailable)

  • 4 cups water

  • 2 cups Jasmine or basmati white rice, rinsed

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 bell pepper (any color), diced

  • 2 tsp epis (Haitian seasoning blend)

  • 1 cup green peas (optional)

  • 1 cup shrimp or crab meat (optional)

  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 2 bouillon cubes (optional for added flavor)

  • 2 sprigs thyme

  • 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (whole, adjust for desired heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Djon Djon Broth

  1. Rinse the dried djon djon mushrooms under cold water to remove any debris.

  2. In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the mushrooms and simmer for about 10 minutes.

  3. Strain the liquid into a bowl, pressing the mushrooms to extract all the flavor. Discard the mushrooms and reserve the black broth.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened and fragrant.

  2. Stir in the epis and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

  1. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the aromatic mixture.

  2. Pour in the reserved mushroom broth (measure to ensure you have about 3 cups; add water if necessary).

  3. Add the thyme, Scotch bonnet pepper, salt, black pepper, bouillon cubes, and green peas or seafood (if using). Stir gently to combine.

  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

Step 4: Fluff and Serve

  1. Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper and thyme sprigs. Fluff the rice with a fork.

  2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and pair it with your favorite Haitian dishes like fried plantains or griot.

Diri Djon Djon is more than just a rice dish; it’s a testament to Haiti’s culinary ingenuity and cultural pride. Whether you’re new to Haitian cuisine or revisiting a classic, this recipe is sure to transport you straight to the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. Bon appétit!

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