Welcome to Dinner Ideas for the Haitian Cook. I’m Samuel Valme, author of Dinner Ideas for the Haitian Cook. Here we share easy, traditional Haitian recipes that you can enjoy at home and with family. Today, let’s make one of the simplest but most important dishes in Haitian cuisine: white rice.
You’ll find this recipe and many more traditional Haitian dishes in our cookbook Dinner Ideas for the Haitian Cook.
Why White Rice Is a Haitian Favorite
Haitians love white rice (diri blan) because it’s one of the most versatile sides on the table. It pairs beautifully with sòs pwa nwa (black bean sauce), other bean-based sauces, or legim (a rich vegetable and meat stew). Its simplicity makes it the perfect companion to the bold flavors of our cooking.
Ingredients
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2 cups long-grain white rice
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3 cups water
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½ teaspoon garlic powder (or ½ teaspoon fresh minced garlic)
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½ small onion, finely diced
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water for about a minute to remove excess starch. This helps the grains stay separate after cooking. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Water
In a medium pot with a tight-fitting lid, add the water, garlic, onion, and salt. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add the Rice
Once the water is boiling, stir in the rice. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until most of the water has evaporated (you’ll notice small holes forming on top).
Step 4: Add Butter and Steam
When the liquid is almost gone, stir in the butter. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the rice steam gently for 15–20 minutes until fluffy.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Turn off the heat and let the rice sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Serve warm with your favorite Haitian dishes like sòs pwa nwa or legim.
Bonus Tips for Cooking White Rice
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Boost the flavor – A little garlic and onion goes a long way.
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Make it rich – Stir in butter just before steaming for a smooth, flavorful finish.
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Enjoy it often – White or brown rice can be part of a balanced daily meal, just as it is in many Haitian homes.
Closing
Thank you for visiting Dinner Ideas for the Haitian Cook. I’m Samuel Valme, and I hope this recipe inspires you to bring the flavors of Haiti into your kitchen. To explore more traditional recipes, grab a copy of my book Dinner Ideas for the Haitian Cook on dinnerideascollective.com.
Until next time, bon apeti!
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