There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming plate of Haitian Spaghetti—a dish that brings warmth and vibrancy to your breakfast table. The first time I tried it, the delicious aroma of sautéed peppers and savory hot dogs wafting through my kitchen instantly transported me to a bustling Haitian market. This one-pot wonder not only delights with its explosion of flavors but is also a budget-friendly meal that even the pickiest eaters will love.
Perfectly cooked spaghetti mingling with a medley of colorful vegetables and seasoned with the iconic Haitian Epis creates a unique breakfast experience unlike any other. Whether you’re looking to spice up your mornings or simply want a wholesome meal that’s easy to whip up, this dish is your answer. Plus, you can easily adapt it to fit various dietary needs! Get ready to impress your family with a taste of Caribbean comfort that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why is Haitian Spaghetti a must-try?
Deliciously Unique: Haitian Spaghetti offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta, blending flavors that will surprise your taste buds.
Budget-Friendly Meal: Created with low-cost ingredients, this dish fits perfectly into your family budget without sacrificing taste.
Quick & Easy: You’ll love how effortlessly this one-pot meal comes together, making it perfect for busy mornings.
Versatile Dish: Adapt it easily with various proteins or even as a vegan option, catering to everyone’s dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: With its comforting flavors and vibrant presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite for family and friends alike!
If you’re eager for more ideas, check out our guide on how to meal prep for busy weeks.
Haitian Spaghetti Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Spaghetti – A long pasta that provides the perfect foundation; feel free to use your favorite long pasta.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté; can also be substituted with any neutral oil.
• Haitian Epis – A critical blend of scallions, thyme, bell pepper, garlic, and bouillon that brings authentic flavor; make it fresh or use store-bought.
• Onion – Adds a touch of sweetness; yellow or white onions work best.
• Green Bell Pepper – Provides a crunchy texture; for a sweeter alternative, use red or yellow bell peppers.
• Red Bell Pepper – Boosts sweetness and color for a vibrant dish.
• Roma Tomatoes – Freshness and acidity balance the dish; canned tomatoes make a good substitute.
• Tomato Paste – Intensifies tomato flavor and thickens the sauce wonderfully.
• Maggi Cubes – This enhances umami flavors; you can swap these for vegetable or chicken bouillon if needed.
• Hot Dogs – A traditional protein option; consider substituting with sausage or leaving it out for a vegan take.
• Ground Cloves – Offers warm, aromatic notes; use sparingly, as nutmeg can work as a substitute.
• Water – Necessary for creating the sauce by loosening the tomato paste.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing the dish’s overall flavor; adjust to your taste preferences.
• Hard Boiled Eggs – Commonly served alongside, adding protein and texture to each serving.
This comforting dish of Haitian Spaghetti is sure to please your palate while being easy on the wallet!
How to Make Haitian Spaghetti
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Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by boiling ½ lb of spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to save some pasta water for later—it’s a game changer for the sauce!
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat ¼ cup of olive oil over medium heat and add 2 tbsp of Haitian Epis. Stir until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2-3 minutes.
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Add the Vegetables: Toss in the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and vibrant.
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Incorporate the Sauce: Stir in 2 tbsp of tomato paste and 3 Maggi cubes, then add the sliced hot dogs and ⅛ tsp of ground cloves. Mix well to combine all flavors.
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Simmer the Mixture: Pour in ⅓ cup of reserved pasta water, bring to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes until the sauce is nicely thickened. Adjust salt to taste.
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Combine with Spaghetti: Add the drained spaghetti to the saucepan and toss it all together until every strand is lovingly coated with the sauce. Serve with half a hard-boiled egg on top for extra delight.
Optional: For a creamy twist, serve with a slice of avocado alongside!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Haitian Spaghetti?
Elevate your breakfast feast with delicious sides that complement the vibrant flavors of this comforting dish.
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Hard-Boiled Eggs: Perfectly boiled and sliced, they provide extra protein and a satisfying texture to balance the spaghetti.
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Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices in Haitian Spaghetti, bringing a refreshing touch to each bite.
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Fried Plantains: Sweet, caramelized plantains bring an irresistible contrast to the savory pasta, enhancing your meal with delightful sweetness and texture.
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Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the hearty flavors of the spaghetti.
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Mango Smoothie: A refreshing mango smoothie made with ripe mangoes and yogurt provides a sweet, tropical twist that rounds out the meal perfectly.
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Haitian Pikliz: This spicy pickled vegetable relish adds a zesty kick and brightens the dish, making each forkful of pasta even more exciting.
Each of these sides will not only complement your Haitian Spaghetti but also transform your breakfast into a celebration of vibrant flavors and textures!
How to Store and Freeze Haitian Spaghetti
Fridge: Store any leftover Haitian Spaghetti in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions of the Haitian Spaghetti in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, remove as much air as possible.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to revive the sauce’s consistency.
Reminder: Adding hard-boiled eggs to the dish won’t freeze well; it’s best to prepare them fresh when serving.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Haitian Spaghetti are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time on busy mornings! You can prepare the sauce (olive oil, Haitian Epis, vegetables, and hot dogs) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Simply sauté the aromatics, mix in the sauce components, and let it cool before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just reheat the sauce in a pan, cook the spaghetti until al dente, and combine them—your Haitian Spaghetti will taste just as delightful! Remember to reserve some pasta water to ensure the sauce remains perfectly creamy. This way, you’ll have a hearty breakfast ready in no time!
Haitian Spaghetti Variations
Customize your Haitian Spaghetti with these delightful twists that will awaken your taste buds and bring extra joy to your table!
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Ground Meat: Swap out hot dogs for ground beef, turkey, or sausage for a heartier texture. It adds richness and enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
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Seafood Delight: Incorporate shrimp or crab for a coastal twist! Sauté the seafood just until cooked through before adding to the sauce for a delightful oceanic flavor.
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Vegan Version: Omit meat entirely for a satisfying vegan dish. Utilize plant-based sausages and ensure your Haitian Epis is free from animal products for a wholesome meal.
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Cheesy Addition: Stir in some shredded cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, just before serving for a creamy, indulgent finish. It’s a comforting touch that will have everyone coming back for more.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for those who crave a little heat. It brings a delightful warmth to the already vibrant flavors.
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Veggie Boost: Enhance health benefits by throwing in extra vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach. Not only do they add color, but they also boost nutrition in every bite.
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Herb Enhancement: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro before serving for a burst of freshness and added aromatic notes. It elevates the dish’s overall taste with a vibrant touch.
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Tomato Twist: Replace some of the Roma tomatoes with roasted cherry tomatoes for a richer, deeper sweetness. Their caramelized flavor will add a unique dimension to your sauce.
Embrace these variations to create your very own unforgettable Haitian Spaghetti experience—each bite will be a celebration of flavor!
Expert Tips for Haitian Spaghetti
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Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your spaghetti, remember to reserve some pasta water. It adds the perfect consistency to your sauce while integrating flavors seamlessly.
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Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version of Haitian Spaghetti, ensure your Haitian Epis does not contain meat products and use vegetable bouillon instead of Maggi cubes.
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Salt Adjustment: If using larger Maggi cubes, start with one to avoid overpowering the dish. Adjust the salt levels gradually for the best flavor.
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Pre-Sauté Hot Dogs: For deeper flavors, consider sautéing the hot dogs in olive oil before adding the Haitian Epis. This extra step enhances the savory elements of the dish.
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Fresh Veggie Swap: Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables! Adding zucchini or corn can create a delightful twist and elevate the freshness of your Haitian Spaghetti.
Haitian Spaghetti Recipe FAQs
Why is Haitian Epis important for this recipe?
Haitian Epis is crucial for the authentic flavor of Haitian Spaghetti. This aromatic blend of scallions, thyme, bell pepper, garlic, and bouillon infuses the dish with depth and vibrancy. You can easily make it at home or purchase it pre-made at a local grocery store. If you’re feeling adventurous, creating your own Epis allows you to adjust the flavors to your preference!
How should I store leftover Haitian Spaghetti?
Store any leftover Haitian Spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To ensure freshness, allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing it up. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a touch of water if the sauce looks too thick.
Can I freeze Haitian Spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can freeze Haitian Spaghetti for up to 2 months. To do this, portion the spaghetti into airtight containers or freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is a bit too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of reserved pasta water or warm water a little at a time while stirring until you reach your desired sauciness. This will help revive the consistency without sacrificing flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! If you’re making Haitian Spaghetti for someone with dietary restrictions, be sure to check that your Haitian Epis doesn’t contain meat products if a vegetarian version is desired. Additionally, you can swap hot dogs for plant-based sausage or omit them entirely to make it vegan-friendly. Always read labels to avoid allergens and substitutions where necessary.
How do I know when my pasta is al dente?
To achieve that perfect al dente texture, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions, but start checking it a minute or two early. Al dente pasta is pleasantly firm to the bite and should have a slight chew without being crunchy. Once you’ve tested it, drain and reserve some pasta water for the sauce!
Haitian Spaghetti: A Fun Twist on Breakfast Pasta Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, reserving some pasta water for the sauce.
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil and add Haitian Epis. Stir until fragrant.
- Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper, sauté for 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste and Maggi cubes, then add sliced hot dogs and ground cloves.
- Pour in reserved pasta water, simmer for 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Add drained spaghetti and toss everything together, serving with a half hard-boiled egg on top.