Haitian Boulette Recipe (Haitian meatballs)/Juicy, flavorful, and full of Caribbean spices Haitian Boulette (Haitian meatballs) is a must cook for each and every food fan! These tender, well-seasoned meatballs are also a staple of Haitian cuisine, eaten as a snack or as an appetizer, or served as the main dish with rice or pasta. Martha’s Own Spicy Meatballs: If you prefer your meatballs with a little more kick and personality, make these!
And this is where is got to be true: meatballs are a world favourite (or maybe just a favourable dish everywhere),but every culture has its own twist. Italian meatballs are served with marinara; Swedish, with a creamy gravy; and Haitian Boulette shine with their brash seasoning and a whisper of spice. Dipped in a tangy sauce, or served with pikliz, Haiti’s infamous spicy pickled cabbage, they are a common street food.
If you tried the recipe for Haitian Griot (fried pork bites) you will definitely love this! Both are traditional Haitian dishes, showcasing the rich, comforting flavors of the country’s food. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing for a party, this recipe is simple to follow and full of flavor. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in!
What is Haitian Boulette Recipe?
What’s in a name? “Boulette” just means “little ball” in French, so it’s an ideal name for these bite-sized treats. But don’t let their simple name fool you—these meatballs are packed with flavor! How often have we heard the phrase, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach?” Well, Haitian Boulette will put anyone’s heart asunder with their rich, well-seasoned taste.
But unlike your run-of-the-mill meatball, Haitian Boulette are often encrusted with a thin, crisp outer layer and juicy in the middle, thanks to a quick pan-fry. Some families bake them to reduce the use of oil. Whether you eat them on their own, serve them having a dipping sauce, or make them part of a full meal, one thing’s for sure — you’ll want to keep making these. Try them just once and you’ll understand why they’re a staple of all Haitian kitchens!
Why You’ll Love This Haitian Boulette Recipe
- Packed with Flavor – Haitian Boulette are seasoned with a rich blend of spices, including garlic, parsley, and thyme, ensuring each bite is full of taste.
- Budget-Friendly – Ground meat is an affordable ingredient, making this recipe cost-effective while still feeling like a gourmet meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you need a quick snack, a party appetizer, or a main course, these meatballs fit any meal plan.
If you love Caribbean flavors, you should also try our Haitian Chicken Stew, another comforting dish packed with bold seasoning!
How to Make Haitian Boulette Recipe
Quick Overview
Haitian Boulette are easy to prepare and require only basic ingredients. The magic lies in the seasoning blend, which gives them their distinct flavor. Plus, they cook quickly, making them a perfect weeknight dinner option.
Key Ingredients for Haitian Boulette
- Ground beef or pork – The base of the meatballs, providing rich, juicy texture.
- Garlic & onion – Essential aromatics that add depth to the flavor.
- Parsley & thyme – Classic Caribbean herbs that bring freshness.
- Breadcrumbs & eggs – Help bind the meatballs together.
- Haitian epis (seasoning paste) – The key to bold, authentic flavor.
- Salt, black pepper, and cayenne – Adds spice and enhances the taste.
- Oil for frying – Helps create a slightly crispy exterior.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the seasoning mix – Blend the garlic, onion, parsley, thyme, and Haitian epis into a paste.
- Mix the meat – In a bowl, combine ground meat, seasoning mix, breadcrumbs, and eggs. Mix well but don’t overwork it.
- Form the meatballs – Shape into small, even-sized balls.
- Cook the meatballs – Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden brown on all sides. Alternatively, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy – Pair with a dipping sauce or serve alongside rice and pikliz.
What to Serve Haitian Boulette With
- Rice and Beans – A classic Haitian side dish that complements the meatballs perfectly.
- Fried Plantains – Adds a slightly sweet contrast to the savory meatballs.
- Pikliz – A spicy, tangy cabbage slaw that enhances the flavors.
- Crispy French Bread – Perfect for making meatball sandwiches!
Top Tips for Perfecting Haitian Boulette
- Use fresh herbs – Fresh parsley and thyme make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t overwork the meat – Over-mixing can make the meatballs tough.
- Try baking instead of frying – If you want a lighter version, bake them in the oven instead.
- Let them rest – Allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes after cooking for maximum juiciness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing – Freeze cooked meatballs in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or microwave for a quick option.
Health Benefits of Haitian Boulette
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Protein | Supports muscle growth and repair |
| Iron | Helps maintain healthy blood levels |
| Garlic | Boosts immunity and heart health |
| Herbs | Packed with antioxidants and vitamins |
Haitian Boulette Recipe: Tasty Meatballs
Course: main courseCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy4-6
servings15
minutes25
minutes350
kcalIngredients
Ground beef or pork – The base of the meatballs, providing rich, juicy texture.
Garlic & onion – Essential aromatics that add depth to the flavor.
Parsley & thyme – Classic Caribbean herbs that bring freshness.
Breadcrumbs & eggs – Help bind the meatballs together.
Haitian epis (seasoning paste) – The key to bold, authentic flavor.
Salt, black pepper, and cayenne – Adds spice and enhances the taste.
Oil for frying – Helps create a slightly crispy exterior.
Directions
- Prepare the seasoning mix : Blend the garlic, onion, parsley, thyme, and Haitian epis into a paste.
- Mix the meat : In a bowl, combine ground meat, seasoning mix, breadcrumbs, and eggs. Mix well but don’t overwork it.
- Form the meatballs : Shape into small, even-sized balls.
- Cook the meatballs : Heat oil in a pan and fry until golden brown on all sides. Alternatively, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy : Pair with a dipping sauce or serve alongside rice and pikliz
Conclusion
Haitian Boulette are much more than meatballs—they’re a tasty, soul-satisfying dish straight from the heart of Haiti. They’re simple to whip up, affordable and so darn delicious, they suit any occasion. Whether you give these to them as an appetizer, a snack or a main dish, they’ll soon become a family favorite.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to check out our other Haitian dishes and let us know how your Boulette turned out in the comments below. Happy cooking!
FAQs : Haitian Boulette Recipe
What are Haitian Boulette?
Haitian Boulette are flavorful, spiced meatballs made with ground meat, garlic, herbs, and Haitian seasoning, typically served as a main dish or appetizer.
How do you make Haitian Boulette?
To make Haitian Boulette, mix ground meat with seasoning ingredients like garlic, parsley, thyme, breadcrumbs, and egg. Shape into balls, then fry or bake until golden and cooked through.
Can I make Haitian Boulette ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
What is the best way to serve Haitian Boulette?
Haitian Boulette are often served with rice and beans, fried plantains, or pikliz, a spicy pickled cabbage. They also make a great sandwich filling.
Can I make Haitian Boulette spicier?
Yes, you can adjust the spice level by adding more cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or incorporating additional spicy seasonings into the meat mixture.
What can I substitute for ground beef in Haitian Boulette?
You can substitute ground beef with ground pork, turkey, or chicken for a leaner option, though the flavor and texture may slightly differ.
Share Your Twist
We love to see how you make this recipe your own! Whether you prefer adding a special ingredient, using a different type of meat, or adjusting the spice level, we want to hear all about it.
Have you tried these meatballs with a unique dipping sauce or served them with an unexpected side dish? Maybe you’ve added your favorite herbs or experimented with different cooking methods! Whatever your twist, we encourage you to share it with us in the comments below or tag us on social media using the hashtag #HaitianBouletteTwist. Let’s get creative together and inspire others to explore new flavors!
Happy cooking, and don’t forget to enjoy your delicious Haitian Boulette!
