Food in Suriname

Suriname, a melting pot of cultures, offers a culinary adventure that mirrors its diverse heritage. As a hidden gem in South America, this country's kitchen presents a fusion of flavors from African, Amerindian, Asian, and European influences, creating a food scene that is both unique and tantalizing. For tourists seeking a taste of the extraordinary, Suriname's cuisine provides a rich tapestry of dishes to explore. Discover the must-try specialties and flavors that define the culinary landscape of Suriname during your visit.

Surinamese Dishes

Pom

Pom is a beloved Surinamese oven-baked dish with Creole origins, often served at festive occasions. Its main ingredient is pomtajer, a root vegetable similar to a potato but with a more citrusy taste. The root is grated and combined with chicken, onions, tomatoes, citrus juice, and various seasonings, then baked until it has a golden crust. The result is a unique blend of flavors that's both savory and slightly tangy.

Roti

Roti is a staple of Surinamese cuisine with Indian influences. This flatbread is traditionally served with curried dishes, including curried chicken, duck, or goat, and vegetables such as potatoes and long beans. The roti itself is often stuffed with dhal (ground yellow split peas) and cooked on a flat pan, resulting in a soft and hearty accompaniment to the rich, spicy curries.

Pepperpot

Pepperpot is an indigenous dish with deep roots in Suriname's history. It's a hearty stew made from a variety of meats, including beef, pork, and chicken, which is simmered in a rich sauce flavored with cassareep (a sauce made from the cassava root), habanero peppers, and various local herbs and spices. This dish is known for its deep, complex flavor and is often served with rice or bread for dipping.

Moksi Alesi

Moksi Alesi, which translates to mixed rice, is a true reflection of Suriname's multicultural heritage. This dish is a flavorful combination of rice cooked with coconut milk, black-eyed peas or kidney beans, and an assortment of meats or fish, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. It's a versatile dish that can include anything from salted beef to smoked fish or shrimp, making it a satisfying meal any time of the day.

Bakkeljauw

Bakkeljauw is a dish centered around salted codfish, which is soaked to remove excess salt before being flaked and fried with onions, tomatoes, and hot peppers. It's often served with bread, rice, or starchy vegetables like cassava and plantains. The mix of saltiness from the fish and the heat from the peppers creates a simple yet flavorful dish.

Bami and Nasi

Surinamese Bami and Nasi are adaptations of Indonesian and Chinese noodle and rice dishes. Bami is made with egg noodles stir-fried with chicken, vegetables, and a blend of soy sauce and other seasonings. Nasi Goreng is the Surinamese take on fried rice, typically prepared with similar ingredients and often accompanied by satay and pickled vegetables called atjar.

Her’ Heri

Her’ Heri is an Afro-Surinamese dish that combines various boiled root vegetables like plantains, cassava, and sweet potatoes with salted fish. It's a simple, hearty meal that's often enjoyed for breakfast and is known for providing a substantial energy boost.

Surinamese Desserts

Bojo

Bojo is a dense, moist cake made from cassava and coconut, sweetened with sugar and sometimes spiced with cinnamon or nutmeg. It's often studded with raisins and has a chewy texture that's quite distinctive. This gluten-free dessert is a favorite at parties and family gatherings.

Fiadoe

Fiadoe is a festive Surinamese pastry that's akin to a layered cake or a sweet bread. It's filled with dried fruits like raisins and currants, which have been soaked in rum or brandy. The dough is enriched with butter and sugar, creating a rich and indulgent treat often served during special occasions and holidays.

Eksi Koekoe

Eksi Koekoe is a popular Surinamese sponge cake known for its light, airy texture. It's typically flavored with vanilla and sometimes almond essence, and it's distinguished by its bright yellow color, which comes from the generous amount of eggs used in the recipe. This cake is a common choice for celebrations, especially birthdays and weddings.

Gommamakkie

Gommamakkie is a traditional dessert made from sweet potatoes. These are grated and mixed with brown sugar, coconut, and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. The result is a sticky, sweet pudding that's often enjoyed as a comforting treat.

Maizenakoekjes

Maizenakoekjes are delicate cornstarch cookies that melt in the mouth. They are simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients like cornstarch, butter, and sugar. These cookies are a common accompaniment to tea or coffee and are cherished for their light, crumbly texture.