chef Mourise
Riz Djon Djon is a flavorful, aromatic dish deeply rooted in Haitian cuisine. The star of the recipe is the djon djon mushroom, which is native to Haiti and gives the dish its distinctive black color and rich, umami taste. If you’re looking to recreate an authentic recette du riz djon djon at home, follow this guide for a perfect result every time.
What is Riz Djon Djon?
Riz Djon Djon, also known as « black mushroom rice, » is a special Haitian dish traditionally served on festive occasions, family gatherings, and celebrations. The black mushrooms (djon djon) release a natural, earthy flavor and color that makes this dish truly unique. Paired with shrimp, peas, or other proteins, it becomes a complete, hearty meal.
recette du riz djon djon
Ingredients
Ingredients Needed for Riz Djon Djon
- Before diving into the cooking process here’s a list of the key ingredients you’ll need to make the perfect riz djon djon:
- 2 cups of jasmine rice
- 1 cup of djon djon mushrooms dried
- 2 cups of water
- 1/2 cup of chopped onions
- 1/2 cup of chopped bell peppers
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 1 cup of green peas
- 1/2 cup of carrots optional
- 1 pound of shrimp optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- 1 Maggi cube optional
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Riz Djon Djon
Step 1: Prepare the Djon Djon Mushroom Extract
- Start by soaking the dried djon djon mushrooms in 2 cups of warm water for 20-30 minutes. This process allows the mushrooms to release their rich black color and distinct flavor into the water. Once soaked, strain the mushrooms and reserve the water—this will be your cooking liquid. Discard the mushrooms or set them aside for later use.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Shrimp
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they become fragrant. If you’re adding shrimp, toss them in and cook until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
Step 3: Add Rice and Djon Djon Extract
- Next, add the jasmine rice to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir the rice for about 2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Pour in the reserved djon djon liquid and bring it to a boil. Season the mixture with thyme, salt, pepper, and the Maggi cube, if using.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
- Once the liquid comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice simmer for 20-25 minutes. Be sure not to lift the lid while it’s cooking. After about 20 minutes, check if the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender.
Step 5: Add Peas, Carrots, and Shrimp
- When the rice is nearly done, gently fold in the green peas, carrots, and the cooked shrimp (if using). Cover the pot again and let it sit on low heat for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Once everything is cooked, fluff the rice with a fork, and your riz djon djon is ready to serve. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of fried plantains, pikliz (Haitian spicy slaw), or even grilled chicken.
Notes
ips for Perfect Riz Djon Djon Every Time
- Use High-Quality Djon Djon Mushrooms: The quality of the mushrooms is essential for the rich color and taste of the rice. If you’re unable to find djon djon locally, you can sometimes find them online or in specialty stores.
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Keep an eye on the water-to-rice ratio. You want the rice to be fluffy and well-cooked but not mushy.
- Experiment with Proteins: While shrimp is a popular addition to riz djon djon, you can also add chicken, beef, or even crab to the dish for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (without shrimp or other proteins):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is djon djon?
Djon djon is a type of black mushroom native to Haiti. When soaked in water, it releases a distinctive black color and rich, earthy flavor, which is essential for making the famous riz djon djon dish. These mushrooms are often found dried and are used to enhance the flavor of rice and other Haitian recipes.
2. Can I make riz djon djon without djon djon mushrooms?
The signature taste and color of riz djon djon come from the djon djon mushrooms, so omitting them will change the dish entirely. However, if you can’t find djon djon mushrooms, you can try using mushroom bouillon or black fungus as an alternative, but it won’t have the same authentic taste.
3. What can I serve with riz djon djon?
Riz djon djon pairs well with a variety of sides and proteins. Popular choices include fried plantains, pikliz (a spicy Haitian slaw), grilled chicken, or seafood like shrimp or crab. It can also be served alongside legume (Haitian vegetable stew) for a complete meal.
4. Is riz djon djon spicy?
No, riz djon djon is not typically spicy. However, you can add spice by serving it with pikliz, which is a spicy Haitian condiment, or by adding hot peppers during the cooking process if you prefer a kick of heat.
5. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover riz djon djon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or gently warm it on the stove with a little water to restore moisture. Avoid reheating more than once to preserve the flavor and texture.
6. Can I freeze riz djon djon?
Yes, riz djon djon can be frozen. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the rice in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Mastering the recette du riz djon djon may take a little practice, but the end result is worth the effort. This Haitian delicacy offers a unique blend of flavors, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying at family gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying Haitian cuisine for the first time, riz djon djon is sure to become a favorite.
