January 1st is special in a Haitian household, and nothing says “home” like Soup Joumou, the traditional Haitian pumpkin soup.
Soup Joumou is more than a soup or another meal; it’s history in a bowl. Every spoon carries strength, resilience, endurance, community, freedom, and the warmth of gathering on New Year’s Day, which also marks Haiti’s Independence Day, symbolising the liberation of the nation from French colonisation in 1804. Historically, it was a delicacy forbidden to Haitians in colonies, hence its making on Independence Day.
This commemoration would be incomplete without a warm bowl of Soup Joumou. Wherever life takes me, one spoonful brings me back to the comfort of my roots, the warmth of Haiti’s sand, and the rhythm of the wind.
“Soup Joumou” reminds us of our roots, our culture, our humanity, and why we celebrate. I am picky when it comes to my “Soup joumou”, the meat has to be seasoned well and the texture of my vegetables and pasta just right!
What is Soup Joumou?
Soup Joumou is a hearty Haitian pumpkin soup made with pumpkin or squash, beef, vegetables, spices, and pasta. From being the meal to celebrate hard-fought freedom from the French, today, it is a powerful symbol of independence, celebration, and a sense of belonging.
Every January 1st, Haitian families gather to cook and share this soup. It’s a reminder of our ancestors’ struggle and triumph, a delicious tradition that keeps us connected to our culture and to each other. Wherever life takes me, “Soup Joumou” is made and shared as a commemoration and sense of community. One spoonful brings me back to the memory of a warm smile, laughter, and the cousin who ate too much. The explosion of flavor with each bite is exactly what I need to nostalgically remember the early rooster call, the noise of the farmers market with endless bargaining, the sound of dominoes, and the excitement of seeing loved ones.
Growing up, “Soup Joumou” was a must, and every family made a big pot to serve their families, friends, neighbors, and anyone who stopped by their house that day. You go pay your respect with New Year Wishes and enjoy “Soup Joumou” all day long.
With my children wherever life takes us, January 1st goes hand in hand with “Soup Joumou”.
Ingredients for Traditional “Soup Joumou“
- Pumpkin, squash, or cabotcha
- Beef
- Carrots, potatoes, taro root, celery, cabbage
- Onions, garlic, peppers
- Penne and spaghetti
- Spices: Thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, clove, scotch bonnet pepper, lemon juice
- Famous “Epis” (blend of green onion, garlic, pepper, parsley, bell pepper, onion)
- Olive oil
Making “Soup Joumou”
There is a saying in Haitian culture in the art of cooking called “gen men”, meaning “Having hand”, which is basically the unique flair of each individual when cooking meals. We may follow the same recipe, use the same ingredients, and yet the taste and even the texture of the food are different. My least favorite thing to do is peeling vegetables, so shout-out to my husband for his help today!
So, here are the steps in cooking my “Soup Joumou”, may you find your way to the homey flavors that keep my kids asking for it all year long:
- Clean and season the meat (I prefer overnight for maximum flavor).
- Cook the beef until tender (Use the Juice as broth)
- Cook the squash with garlic, green onion, and a dash of olive oil to make a puree.
- Peel, wash, and cut all vegetables
- Add the vegetables and meat to the squash puree, then add your spices.
- Add pasta near the end for a comforting, hearty finish.
Add some lemon juice and season until it tastes right or to your heart’s content! I taste from a small drop, but my husband needs a spoon and even a bowl to really enjoy tasting the soup or any food, really!
A Taste of Home Anywhere
Soup Joumou is more than a recipe; it’s a memory, a story, and a celebration. Whether I’m in Haiti or thousands of miles away, a bowl of this soup brings me home. This year, once again, I get to share it with other Haitians and other friends.
Food tastes better when it’s shared!
With warmth,
Jasleyv
Writer. Seeker. Believer in little blessings.
🌿 Live fully. Be true. Be you.
