In Haitian households, Sunday dinner is a celebration in itself. Most families prepare their dinner with care. From setting the table with special cutlery often reserved for a special day, to delicious black rice, legume, white rice with beans, and even poultry, a beloved staple of our food culture. Following this trend adds a very special touch to our Easter Sunday menu. It is a religious celebration and a sign of the holy communion of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is intriguing that the bright red color of beetroot contains symbolism related to the blood and scarabs of Jesus Christ, giving its consumption during Easter celebrations in Haiti’s deep religious significance.
If this isn’t news to you, outside of Haitian culture, beets and fish are a unique and wonderful combination that goes well together and is packed with nutrients. They are considered easy to make, with fish being a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Haitian culture, “as a wish for continued abundance in the months following Easter,” says Fabienne Saint-Étienne, a Trounippoise who lives in Carrefour Lundi.
Beetroots, on the other hand, are prized for their vibrant red color, which provide a starch option, also as an important source of nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and fiber. They are equally healthy when combined with other vegetables such as potatoes, green peas and carrots to make a salad, adding visual appeal.
At Easter, fish and beetroots are typically prepared in a variety of ways, highlighting the versatility and depth of Haitian holiday cuisine. The dishes range from simple and rustic to complex and aromatic, reflecting Haiti’s cultural spice heritage. At your next Easter celebration, be sure to ask a Haitian how they celebrate these traditional dishes and how they like them.
Interesting fact: A recent study from Hilo Gummies suggests that beetroot juice may improve cardiovascular performance, leading to longer, less strenuous workouts, which could help you achieve a training goal.
