Imagine walking down the vibrant streets of Paramaribo, the capital city of Suriname, and being enveloped by the mouthwatering aroma of a variety of delicious street food. From crispy bara bread stuffed with flavorful fillings to savory bami noodles, Suriname has a rich culinary scene that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a foodie in search of new flavors or simply looking to embrace local culture, this article will guide you through the essential Surinamese street foods that you absolutely must try. Get ready for a culinary adventure unlike any other!
Bami
Description of Bami street food
Bami is a popular Surinamese street food dish that is a delicious combination of stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and meat. It is inspired by Chinese cuisine but has its own unique twist. Bami is known for its bold flavors and satisfying texture, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients used in Bami
The key ingredients in Bami are noodles, typically egg noodles or wheat noodles. These noodles are cooked until al dente and then stir-fried with a variety of vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, bell peppers, and onions. The dish is often made with protein options like chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu, adding a savory element to the dish. To enhance the flavor, a combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and spices like cumin and turmeric are used.
How Bami is prepared
To prepare Bami, the noodles are first boiled until they reach the desired consistency. Meanwhile, the vegetables and proteins are sautéed in a hot pan with oil. Once the vegetables have softened and the proteins are cooked through, the noodles are added to the pan and tossed together with the other ingredients. The dish is seasoned with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and spices, and then stir-fried until everything is well combined and heated through. Bami is typically garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro and served hot.
Popular variations of Bami street food
While the traditional Bami recipe is already delicious, there are several popular variations of this street food. Some variations include adding different vegetables such as bean sprouts, mushrooms, or spinach to the dish. Others prefer to spice up their Bami with chili peppers or add additional seasonings like oyster sauce or fish sauce for a more intense flavor. Bami can also be customized with different protein choices or be made vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether. The versatility of Bami allows for endless possibilities and ensures that there is a version to cater to every individual’s taste.
Roti
Description of Roti street food
Roti is a beloved Surinamese street food that consists of a thick, fluffy flatbread served with a flavorful filling. This tasty dish has its roots in Indian cuisine but has been adapted to the Surinamese palate, resulting in a unique and delicious street food experience.
Ingredients used in Roti
The main ingredient in Roti is the flatbread, which is made from a mixture of flour, water, oil, and a pinch of salt. The dough is kneaded until it becomes smooth and elastic, and then rolled out into thin circular shapes. The filling traditionally consists of curried potatoes and vegetables, such as chickpeas, carrots, and green beans. The dish can also be accompanied by a protein option like chicken, goat, or shrimp. Various spices and herbs, including cumin, turmeric, coriander, and garlic, are used to create the rich and aromatic flavor profile of Roti.
How Roti is prepared
To prepare Roti, the flatbread dough is divided into smaller portions and rolled out into thin circles. These circles are then cooked on a hot griddle or skillet until they puff up and develop a light golden brown color. While the bread is cooking, the filling ingredients are sautéed and seasoned with an array of spices to create a fragrant curry. The cooked flatbread is then filled with the savory mixture, folded or rolled, and served hot. Roti is often accompanied by a side of spiced pickles, mango chutney, or hot sauce to add an extra layer of flavor.
Popular variations of Roti street food
Roti is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes. Some variations include adding meat options like lamb or beef to the filling, providing a heartier and more protein-packed meal. Fish or shrimp Roti is also a popular variation that incorporates seafood into the dish. Additionally, the choice of vegetables can vary, allowing individuals to personalize their Roti according to their preferences. Some people may prefer a spicier version, while others may choose to add more herbs for a refreshing twist. Regardless of the variation, Roti always promises a satisfying meal packed with flavors.
Pom
Description of Pom street food
Pom is a flavorful Surinamese street food dish that originated from the Creole community. This mouthwatering delicacy is made from oven-baked, marinated pomtajer root, which is a starchy and nutritious tuber. Pom is known for its unique blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a must-try street food in Suriname.
Ingredients used in Pom
The star ingredient of Pom is pomtajer root, also known as cocoyam or taro. The root is grated and then combined with a variety of other ingredients, including chicken or salted meat, citrus juice, onions, garlic, and spices such as cumin, coriander, and nutmeg. A touch of sugar or honey is added to balance the tartness of the citrus juice and create that distinctive sweet-savory flavor profile that Pom is famous for.
How Pom is prepared
To prepare Pom, the pomtajer root is first grated and soaked in water to remove the excess starch. It is then mixed with the marinating ingredients, including citrus juice, onions, garlic, and spices. The meat, usually chicken or salted meat, is cooked separately and then combined with the pomtajer mixture. The dish is then transferred to a baking dish and baked in the oven until the top develops a golden crust and the flavors meld together. Pom is typically served hot and can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side.
Popular variations of Pom street food
While the traditional Pom recipe is already a crowd-pleaser, there are some popular variations to explore. Some variations include adding additional vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes to the dish, which adds a refreshing twist and extra texture. Others may choose to experiment with different protein options, such as shrimp or tofu, to cater to their dietary preferences. The level of spice can also be adjusted to taste, with some people opting for a spicier version by adding chili peppers or hot sauce. Pom is a versatile street food that can be adapted to suit different palates while maintaining its unique flavors.
Bara
Description of Bara street food
Bara is a delectable Surinamese street food that originated from Indian cuisine. These savory, deep-fried dough balls are a popular snack in Suriname, loved for their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful interior. Bara is often enjoyed with a variety of chutneys and sambals, making it a truly satisfying and mouthwatering street food experience.
Ingredients used in Bara
The main ingredients in Bara include split peas, flour, onions, garlic, and an assortment of herbs and spices. Split peas are soaked and then ground into a paste, which is combined with flour, onions, garlic, and a mixture of aromatic spices such as cumin, turmeric, and coriander. The dough is left to ferment slightly, allowing the flavors to develop, before being shaped into small balls and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy.
How Bara is prepared
To prepare Bara, the split peas are soaked in water overnight, allowing them to soften. The softened split peas are then ground into a smooth paste using a food processor or blender. The paste is mixed with flour, chopped onions, crushed garlic, and a blend of fragrant spices to create a flavorful dough. The dough is left to rest for a few hours, allowing it to ferment slightly and develop a tangy flavor. Small balls of dough are formed and deep-fried until they become golden brown and crispy. Bara is best enjoyed fresh, and is often served with a variety of chutneys and sambals for dipping.
Popular variations of Bara street food
While the classic Bara recipe is already a favorite among many, there are some popular variations to explore. Some variations include adding different herbs and spices to the dough, such as curry powder or chili flakes, to create a more intense flavor profile. Others may choose to stuff the dough balls with a filling, like spiced potatoes or lentils, before frying them. Bara can also be served in a sandwich-like manner, with the dough balls split open and filled with various fillings like chutneys, pickles, and even meat or seafood. The versatility of Bara allows for endless creativity and ensures that there is a variation to suit everyone’s taste buds.
