John Myers
Introduction: Surinamese Cuisine and Its Sweet Treats
Surinamese cuisine is a unique blend of African, Indian, Javanese, Chinese, Dutch, and Indigenous cultures that has developed over centuries. The food in Suriname is diverse and flavorful, with a variety of spices and herbs used in everyday cooking. While savory dishes like Roti, Nasi Goreng, and Pom are popular, Surinamese cuisine also offers a wide range of sweet treats and pastries that are worth exploring.
Popular Traditional Sweets in Surinamese Cuisine
Suriname has a rich tradition of sweet treats that are made from local ingredients like coconut, cassava, and sugar cane. One of the most popular sweets in Surinamese cuisine is Kokosbrood, which is a coconut candy that is made by boiling shredded coconut with sugar. Another popular sweet is Kwee Lapis, which is a type of jelly candy that is made with cassava and sugar, and flavored with pandan leaves, lemon juice, or rose essence.
Another classic Surinamese sweet is Bojo, which is a cake made with grated cassava, coconut, and sugar. Bojo is a dense and flavorful cake that is often served during festivals and celebrations. Other traditional sweets include Ghoeghoe, a type of sugared ginger candy, and Sopropo, which is a sweetened bitter melon preserve.
Traditional Surinamese Pastries: A Delicious and Rich Legacy
Surinamese pastries are also a delicious legacy of the country’s multicultural heritage. One of the most popular pastries is Pastei, which is a savory pastry made with a flaky crust and filled with chicken, beef, or vegetables. Another popular pastry is Saoto, which is a chicken soup served with crispy noodles and various condiments.
Other traditional Surinamese pastries include Bara, which is a fried dough ball made with flour, split peas, and spices, and Pom-Pom, which is a type of savory pie made with grated taro root, chicken, and spices. Sweet pastries like Roti Koekoes, which is a type of sweet bread, and Laddu, which is a sweet ball made with flour, sugar, and butter, are also popular in Surinamese cuisine.
In conclusion, Surinamese cuisine offers a rich and diverse range of sweet treats and pastries that are unique to the region. From coconut candies to cassava cakes, Surinamese sweets are a must-try for anyone interested in exploring the country’s food culture. And with savory pastries like Pastei and Saoto, Surinamese cuisine offers a unique twist on classic comfort food favorites.
