What is Surinamese cuisine?
Suriname is a small country in South America that has a diverse culture, language, and cuisine. Surinamese cuisine is influenced by the country’s history of colonization, slavery, immigration, and trade. It is a fusion of African, Indian, Indonesian, Dutch, Chinese, and indigenous flavors, ingredients, and techniques. Surinamese cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, hearty dishes, and diverse range of snacks, which are a vital part of the country’s food culture.
Importance of snacking in Surinamese culture
Snacking is a popular pastime and social activity in Suriname. It is a way of sharing food, bonding with friends and family, and enjoying the flavors and textures of Surinamese cuisine. Surinamese snacks are often sold in street markets, food stalls, and neighborhood stores, and they are consumed throughout the day and night. Snacking is also a symbol of Surinamese hospitality and generosity, as hosts often offer a variety of snacks to their guests.
Characteristics of Surinamese snacks
Surinamese snacks are characterized by their bold and spicy flavors, diverse ingredients, and unique textures. Many snacks are fried or roasted and have a crispy exterior and a soft or chewy interior. Surinamese snacks often incorporate herbs, spices, and condiments such as garlic, cumin, masala, tamarind, and hot peppers. Surinamese snacks are often served with flavorful dipping sauces, such as peanut sauce, green chili sauce, and mango chutney.
Popular Surinamese snacks
Some of the most popular Surinamese snacks include:
- Baka bana: fried plantains
- Bara: deep-fried dough balls made with split peas, onions, and spices
- Saoto soup: a spicy chicken soup with noodles, bean sprouts, and boiled eggs
- Pom: a savory casserole made with grated taro root, chicken, and spices
- Roti: a flatbread served with curried vegetables or meat
- Bakabana met pindasaus: fried plantains with peanut sauce
Recipes for traditional Surinamese snacks
Here’s a recipe for bara, one of the most popular Surinamese snacks:
Bara (Deep-fried split pea dough balls)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups yellow split peas, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 green chili, chopped
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Drain and rinse the soaked split peas and grind them in a food processor until smooth.
- Transfer the split pea batter to a mixing bowl and add the chopped onion, cumin, coriander, garlic, ginger, salt, black pepper, and green chili. Mix well.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot.
- Using a spoon or your hands, shape the split pea batter into small balls and drop them into the hot oil.
- Fry the bara until they are golden brown and crisp.
- Drain the bara on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve the bara hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Conclusion: Exploring Surinamese snacks
Surinamese snacks are a delicious and diverse part of the country’s cuisine and culture. They are a reflection of Suriname’s rich history and the fusion of different cultures and flavors. By trying traditional Surinamese snacks, you can experience the bold and spicy flavors, the unique textures, and the warmth and hospitality of Surinamese culture.
