Delicious Culinary Adventure: A Guide to Food in Suriname

Welcome, intrepid traveler, to a mouth-watering, delectable guide to the food of Suriname, a small yet beautifully diverse South American nation. With an unparalleled amalgamation of influences from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Indigenous cultures of the Americas, Suriname’s cuisine is as rich and unique as its history. Prepare your palate for an unforgettable adventure!

An Introduction to Surinamese Cuisine

Before we start exploring specific dishes, let’s talk a bit about the background. Suriname, the smallest country in South America, was a melting pot of cultures due to its historical connection with colonial powers and the influx of various ethnic groups, notably the Indigenous peoples, Africans, Indians, Javanese (from present-day Indonesia), Chinese, and Europeans. This cultural fusion is perfectly mirrored in the food you’ll find here – a harmonious blend of flavors, ingredients, and cooking methods.

Staple Foods in Suriname

Staple foods in Suriname are rice, root vegetables (like cassava and sweet potato), plantains, and a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Seafood is also incredibly popular, given Suriname’s long coastline and abundant rivers, while chicken and beef are also common proteins. However, the uniqueness of Surinamese cuisine lies not just in the ingredients used but in the style of preparation and the spices that add a distinctive kick to every dish.

Must-Try Dishes

Roti

Roti, an Indian-inspired flatbread served with a variety of curried accompaniments, is a must-try when in Suriname. It is typically served with chicken curry, but vegetarian options with potato and long beans are also quite popular. This hearty and flavorful dish is a symbol of the Indian influence in Surinamese cuisine.

Pom

Pom is a traditional Surinamese dish typically served at celebrations. It’s made from pomtajer (a root vegetable), chicken, citrus juice, and a mix of spices. The dish is then baked until it achieves a unique, almost cake-like consistency. With a tangy and savory taste, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.

Pepperpot

Originating from the Afro-Surinamese community, Pepperpot is a hearty stew made with meat (often beef, pork, or chicken), spices, and a key ingredient called ‘cassareep’ – a sauce made from cassava root. It’s traditionally served with rice or bread and offers a fantastic blend of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Moksie Alesie

Moksie Alesie, which translates to “mixed rice,” is a one-pot dish influenced by the Javanese. It’s made with rice, chicken, beans, and a variety of vegetables, all seasoned with spices and soy sauce. This flavorful, comforting dish is a common sight in local restaurants and street food stalls.

Popular Surinamese Desserts

Surinamese desserts are a delightful way to end your meal. They often feature tropical fruits and flavors, so prepare for a sweet, tropical experience!

Bojo Cake

This decadent cake is made from grated coconut and cassava, mixed with sugar, eggs, and rum. The result is a moist, dense dessert that melts in your mouth. A piece of Bojo cake is a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth after a meal.

Fruit Delights

Suriname is rich in tropical fruits like pineapple, papaya, guava, and passion fruit. These are often used in desserts, served fresh, or made into ice cream and juices. Don’t miss the chance to try the local fruit, either in a dish or simply fresh from the market.

Local Beverages

No meal is complete without a refreshing drink. In Suriname, you’ll find a wide range of local beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

Parbo Beer

Parbo Beer is the national beer of Suriname, and it’s a must-try for beer lovers. It’s a lager-style beer with a clean, crisp flavor – perfect for a hot Surinamese day.

Cassava Beer (Kasiri)

For a taste of traditional Indigenous drink, try Kasiri, a beer made from fermented cassava. It’s slightly sour and very refreshing.

Fruit Juices

Suriname’s tropical climate yields a bounty of fruits, which are often made into fresh, sweet juices. Popular choices include passion fruit, pineapple, and orange, but don’t hesitate to try more unusual ones like soursop or tamarind.

Dining in Suriname: Restaurants and Street Food

The culinary experience in Suriname is incomplete without delving into its restaurant scene and street food culture. Whether you’re a fan of fine dining or prefer to taste the authentic local flavors on the street, Suriname offers something for everyone.

Restaurants in Paramaribo

The capital city, Paramaribo, hosts a wide range of restaurants that cater to diverse tastes. You can find traditional Surinamese eateries as well as restaurants offering Chinese, Indonesian, Indian, and Western food.

One must-visit place is ‘De Gadri’, known for its indigenous and Afro-Surinamese cuisine. Try their traditional pepperpot or cassava bread for a memorable experience.

‘Roopram Roti’, on the other hand, is an ideal spot for enjoying the best Roti in town. It’s a fast-food restaurant loved by locals and tourists alike.

Street Food

Suriname’s street food culture is an experience in itself. The city’s markets, like the Central Market in Paramaribo, are great places to try authentic and affordable Surinamese food. Here, you can find everything from saoto soup (a chicken soup with Javanese roots) to baka bana (fried plantain with peanut sauce). Don’t forget to try Surinamese-style loempia (spring rolls) and bara (a fried dough snack), both highly popular among locals.

Surinamese Food Etiquette

While Surinamese people are generally laid-back and welcoming, it’s good to be aware of some dining etiquette when eating in Suriname. It is common to eat with a fork and spoon, with the spoon in the right hand. However, dishes like roti are often eaten by hand. Always use your right hand if you choose to eat this way. It’s also typical to share dishes in a communal setting, reflecting the communal nature of Surinamese society.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Suriname is quite vegetarian-friendly, thanks to its Indian and Javanese influences. Many Indian-style dishes, like roti, can be made with just vegetables, while tofu and tempeh are common in Javanese cuisine. Tropical fruits and vegetables are aplenty, and dishes like pom can be made vegetarian by excluding the chicken. Vegans should be aware, though, that some dishes might use fish or shrimp paste for flavor, so it’s always a good idea to ask.

Suriname’s food scene, with its blend of vibrant flavors, cultural diversity, and warm hospitality, provides a truly unique culinary experience. Whether you’re indulging in a sumptuous restaurant meal, trying out local street food, or even cooking a traditional Surinamese dish yourself, you’re sure to enjoy this flavorful journey. So get ready to explore, taste, and fall in love with Surinamese cuisine.