Introduction: Suriname’s culinary diversity
Suriname, located on the northeastern coast of South America, is known for its diverse cuisine that reflects the country’s multicultural heritage. Surinamese cuisine is a fusion of African, Dutch, Indian, Indonesian, Chinese, and indigenous influences. The availability of various spices, herbs, fruits, vegetables, and seafood makes Suriname a food lover’s paradise.
Javanese influences in Surinamese cuisine
The Javanese community in Suriname has a significant influence on the country’s cuisine, as they form the largest immigrant group from Indonesia. Some of the popular Javanese dishes in Suriname include nasi goreng, bami goreng, and saoto soup. Nasi goreng is a fried rice dish that typically includes shrimp, chicken, and vegetables, while bami goreng is a similar dish made with noodles. Saoto soup, a spicy chicken soup, is a favorite breakfast dish in Suriname.
Indigenous dishes: cassava and seafood
Cassava, a starchy tuber, is a staple food in Suriname and is used in various dishes, such as cassava fries, cassava bread, and cassava soup. Seafood is also popular in Suriname, thanks to the country’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. Some of the seafood dishes that are a must-try in Suriname include pom, a casserole made with fish, cassava, and coconut milk, and barbecue shrimp, which is often served at beachside restaurants.
Dutch and Creole influences on local cooking
The Dutch colonized Suriname in the 17th century, and their influence on local cuisine can still be observed today. Some of the popular Dutch dishes that have made their way into Suriname’s culinary landscape include pea soup (erwtensoep) and meat croquettes (kroketten). Creole cuisine, a blend of African, European, and indigenous influences, is also prevalent in Suriname and features dishes such as chicken pom, okra soup, and rice and beans.
Popular street food: bara and roti
Bara and roti are two of the most popular street foods in Suriname. Bara is a fried dough ball made with split peas, while roti is a flatbread made with flour. Both of these foods are typically served with a variety of fillings, such as chicken, potatoes, and chutneys. The popularity of bara and roti has spread beyond Suriname’s borders, with many Surinamese restaurants in the Netherlands and other parts of the world serving these dishes.
Sweet treats: pastries and sweets from Suriname
Suriname also has a sweet tooth, with a variety of pastries and sweets available throughout the country. One of the most popular sweets is kokosbrood, a coconut candy that is similar to fudge. Pastei, a type of pastry filled with chicken or beef, is also a favorite snack in Suriname. Other sweet treats to try in Suriname include bojo (a cake made with cassava and coconut), gemberkoek (a gingerbread cookie), and pindakoekjes (peanut cookies).
