When it comes to comfort food, Haitian Spaghetti Recipe is a dish that many people love. It’s simple, filling, and can be made in so many different ways. But have you ever tried Haitian Spaghetti?

If not, you’re in for a treat! Haitian Spaghetti is a delicious twist on the classic spaghetti recipe, with unique flavors that will have you hooked from the first bite.

Made with a blend of spices, herbs, and flavorful ingredients, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a weekend meal.

I first tried Haitian Spaghetti when I was invited to a friend’s house for dinner. I was unfamiliar with the dish, but once I tasted it, I couldn’t stop.

The rich, savory flavors and the spicy kick left a lasting impression on me. It was unlike any spaghetti I had tasted before, and I immediately knew I had to recreate it at home.

Haitian Spaghetti is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Let’s dive into the recipe!

What is Haitian Spaghetti Recipe?

Haitian Spaghetti is a popular dish in Haitian cuisine, known for its bold flavors and vibrant colors. It is typically made with pasta, a blend of flavorful seasonings, and cooked meat such as sausage or ground beef.

The key to Haitian Spaghetti lies in the combination of ingredients like tomato paste, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and various spices.

These ingredients come together to create a rich and savory sauce that coats the spaghetti, making every bite a burst of flavor. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare and loved by many, both in Haiti and around the world.

While the recipe can vary depending on who makes it, the base ingredients often stay the same. The dish is known for being simple yet full of taste, making it a go-to meal for busy days or special gatherings.

Whether you’re new to Haitian food or a longtime fan, Haitian Spaghetti is sure to impress your taste buds.

How Haitian Spaghetti Recipe Tastes Like

Haitian Spaghetti is a burst of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors all in one bite. The first thing you’ll notice is the rich tomato base, which gives the dish a deep, savory flavor.

This is balanced by the sweetness from the bell peppers and onions, which add a fresh taste to the sauce.

The seasoning, which includes garlic, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers (for a spicy kick), brings the whole dish to life.

The heat from the scotch bonnet pepper adds a pleasant warmth, without overwhelming the other flavors.

The cooked pasta soaks up all the savory goodness from the sauce, making each bite hearty and satisfying. If you add ground beef or sausage, the dish becomes even more filling, and the meat adds a savory richness.

Overall, Haitian Spaghetti is a balanced combination of spicy, sweet, and savory elements, making it a unique take on the traditional spaghetti dish.

When Was I First Introduced to Haitian Spaghetti?

I first discovered Haitian Spaghetti at a friend’s house during a family gathering. At first, I didn’t know what to expect since I had never heard of this particular version of spaghetti before.

But when I took my first bite, I was instantly hooked. The dish had a familiar spaghetti taste, but with a deeper, richer flavor profile that made it stand out.

The heat from the peppers and the savory spices blended together perfectly, and I found myself going back for seconds!

It was so delicious that I asked my friend to share the recipe with me. From that moment on, I knew I had to make Haitian Spaghetti at home.

It quickly became one of my favorite dishes to prepare for family dinners, and I love how easy it is to make while still offering such a flavorful experience.

Equipment

Large Pot (for boiling the spaghetti)
Large Pan or Skillet (for cooking the sauce and meat)

Colander (to drain the cooked spaghetti)
Wooden Spoon (for stirring the sauce)
Measuring Cups and Spoons (to measure the ingredients)

Knife and Cutting Board (to chop vegetables and herbs)

Ingredients to Make Haitian Spaghetti Recipe

Spaghetti = 1 pound (or your preferred pasta)
Vegetable Oil = 2 tablespoons

Beef or Sausage = 1/2 pound (ground) (or both)
Onion = 1 (chopped)
Bell Pepper = 1 (chopped)

Garlic = 4 cloves (minced)
Tomato Paste = 1 tablespoon
Tomatoes = 1 can (14 oz) (diced)

Tomato Ketchup = 2 tablespoons
Thyme = 1 teaspoon (dried or fresh)
Bonnet Pepper = 1 scotch (or use another hot pepper of your choice)

Salt and Pepper to taste
Parsley = 2 tablespoons (fresh) (chopped)
Olive Oil = 1 tablespoon (for cooking the spaghetti)

Water = 01 cup (or as needed to adjust sauce consistency)

How to Make Haitian Spaghetti

Step by Step Instructions:

Step 01: Cook the Spaghetti

Boil salted water in a large pot.

Add spaghetti and cook as per package instructions.
Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 02: Cook the Meat

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned.
Break meat apart with a spoon.

Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.

Step 03: Prepare the Sauce

Add more oil to the pan if needed.
Sauté chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic.

Cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Add diced tomatoes, ketchup, thyme, and scotch bonnet.

Stir well and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add water to adjust sauce thickness if needed.

Step 04: Combine the Meat and Sauce

Return cooked meat to the pan with the sauce.

Stir to combine and simmer for 5 more minutes.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 05: Mix the Spaghetti with the Sauce

Add drained spaghetti to the pan with the sauce.

Toss to coat the pasta with the sauce.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness.

Step 06: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with more parsley if desired.

Servings and Preparation Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings: This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on portion size.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Servings)
Calories	400-450 kcal (varies based on meat choice)
Fat	15-20 g
Carbohydrates	50-55 g
Protein	20-25 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	5-6 g
Sodium	800-1000 mg

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and Minerals	Value
Vitamin A	15 % of the daily value (from bell peppers and tomato paste)
Vitamin C	20 % of the daily value (from bell peppers and parsley)
Calcium	4 % of the daily value (from the pasta)
Iron	15 % of the daily value (from ground beef or sausage)
Potassium	12 % of the daily value (from tomatoes and bell peppers)
Magnesium	8 % of the daily value (from pasta and vegetables)

Recipe Tips

Here are some helpful tips to make your Haitian Spaghetti even more delicious:

Use the Right Pasta: While traditional spaghetti is commonly used, you can experiment with other pasta types like penne or rotini. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become too soft after mixing with the sauce.

Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, peas, or even zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. These veggies complement the sauce and add some texture to the dish.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of scotch bonnet pepper or use a milder pepper instead. On the other hand, if you love heat, feel free to add more peppers to suit your taste.
Try Different Meats: Ground beef is often used in Haitian Spaghetti, but you can also try ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different twist. The meat adds extra flavor and makes the dish more filling.

Cook the Sauce Slowly: Allow the sauce to simmer for a longer period of time so that all the flavors have time to meld together. This will result in a richer, more flavorful sauce.

FAQs

Can I make Haitian Spaghetti without meat?

Yes! You can easily make Haitian Spaghetti vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding extra vegetables or even tofu for protein. The sauce itself is packed with flavor, so it will still taste great.

What can I use if I don’t have scotch bonnet peppers?

If you can’t find scotch bonnet peppers, you can substitute with other hot peppers like habanero peppers or jalapeños. Keep in mind that scotch bonnet peppers are very spicy, so adjust accordingly.

Can I make Haitian Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, Haitian Spaghetti can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat it in a pan before serving.

Is Haitian Spaghetti served as a side dish or a main dish?

Haitian Spaghetti is typically served as a main dish, especially when paired with meat. However, it can also be served as a side dish alongside other Haitian meals.

What to Serve with Haitian Spaghetti Recipe

Haitian Spaghetti is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside:

Haitian Fried Plantains (Banan Peze): The sweet, crispy plantains are a perfect complement to the savory spaghetti, adding a nice contrast in flavor and texture.
Avocado Salad: A fresh avocado salad with tomatoes, onions, and a bit of lime juice adds a refreshing balance to the spicy spaghetti.

Haitian Rice and Beans: This is another classic Haitian side dish that pairs well with the spaghetti. The rice and beans have a mild flavor that balances the richness of the spaghetti.
Grilled Meat or Fish: If you want to make the meal more filling, serve Haitian Spaghetti with grilled chicken, pork, or fish. The smoky flavor from the grilled meat adds an extra layer of taste to the meal.
Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds a nice balance to the dish and helps cool off the heat from the peppers.

Storage Tips

Cool: Allow the Haitian Spaghetti to cool to room temperature before storing.
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the spaghetti in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months.

Reheat: To reheat, microwave the spaghetti or heat on the stovetop. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Concluding Remarks

Haitian Spaghetti is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines simple ingredients with bold flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s a guaranteed hit.

The rich tomato-based sauce, seasoned meat, and fresh vegetables come together beautifully to create a meal that is both satisfying and packed with nutrients.

Plus, it’s easy to customize by adjusting the level of heat or adding your favorite vegetables.

With simple storage and reheating options, this dish is perfect for meal prep and leftovers. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or reheated.

Haitian Spaghetti offers a delicious, hearty meal that can be shared with family and friends. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find a new favorite in your dinner rotation!

Enjoy your Cooking Adventure with Munchiie!

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