Bouyon (Haitian Soup)

Experience the hearty and vibrant flavors of Haitian cuisine with Bouyon, a traditional soup that combines a variety of meats, vegetables, and starchy ingredients in a flavorful broth. Perfect for family gatherings or a comforting meal, Bouyon offers a rich, satisfying taste of Haitian culinary tradition.

Ingredients

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into cubes
• 1 lb pork, cut into cubes
• 1 lb chicken pieces (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, whole (optional for heat)
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 2 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups yams, peeled and cubed
• 2 cups plantains, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• 1 cup cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup malanga or taro, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup peas (optional)
• 8 cups water or beef/chicken stock
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon bouillon powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat

   Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef, pork, and chicken pieces on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics

   In the same pot, add onion, garlic, and scallions. Sauté until fragrant and slightly softened. Return the browned meat to the pot.

3. Add Seasonings and Broth

   Add the Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, salt, pepper, and bouillon powder. Pour in the water or stock, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.

4. Add Root Vegetables

   Add pumpkin, yams, plantains, carrots, malanga, and peas. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but not mushy.

5. Add Greens

   Add green beans and cabbage. Cook for an additional 5–10 minutes until the greens are just tender.

6. Serve

   Remove the Scotch bonnet pepper before serving. Ladle Bouyon into bowls, ensuring each serving has a mix of meat, vegetables, and broth.

Serving

Serve Bouyon hot, with crusty bread or rice on the side if desired. This hearty soup is perfect for nourishing family meals and brings a taste of Haitian tradition to your table.