Epis (Haitian Green Seasoning) (2024)

August 7, 2020 | Last Updated on March 23, 2024 by Patricia Valbrun

Epis Haitian Green Seasoning traces its roots back to Haiti's vibrant culinary landscape. In Haitian cuisine, seasoning plays a pivotal role, enhancing the taste of various dishes, from meats to seafood and vegetables.

Epis is a hidden gem in cooking. It's a mix of herbs and spices that doesn't just make food taste better, but also brings a piece of Haiti to your kitchen table.

Ingredients for Haitian Green Seasoning

• Olive oil. Adds richness and depth of flavor to the seasoning blend.
• Water. Helps to create the desired consistency of the seasoning mixture.
• Leeks. Bring a mild onion-like flavor and subtle sweetness to the seasoning blend.
• Parsley. Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor and vibrant green color.
• Fresh thyme. Provides aromatic notes and earthy undertones to enhance the flavor profile.
• Garlic. Infuses the seasoning blend with aromatic and savory notes.
• Bell pepper. Contributes sweetness and a subtle vegetal flavor.
• Salt. Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and helps to balance the overall taste.
• Black pepper. Adds warmth and a hint of spiciness to the seasoning blend.
• Whole cloves. Imparts a warm, spicy aroma and flavor.
• Chicken Bouillon. Brings umami depth and complexity to the seasoning blend.
• Scotch bonnet pepper. Provides a fiery kick and intense heat, adding a bold flavor element to the mixture.

What Is Epis ?

Epis (Green Seasoning) is a quintessential Haitian seasoning blend celebrated for its versatility and vibrant flavors. Beyond its primary role in marinating meats, epis holds a cherished place in Haitian culinary tradition, enriching various dishes from rice to soups and beyond.

How To Make Epis (Haitian Green Seasoning)

Crafted from diverse fresh vegetables and herbs, epis encompasses a symphony of flavors that elevate Haitian cuisine to new heights. Its aromatic profile often includes leeks, scallions, thyme, parsley, celery, and bell pepper, each contributing its unique essence to the blend.

1. Clean and prepare all the vegetables, including leeks, parsley, fresh thyme, garlic cloves, bell peppers, and scotch bonnet peppers.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the olive oil and water.
3. Gradually add the leeks, parsley, fresh thyme, garlic cloves, bell peppers, salt, black pepper, whole cloves, chicken bouillon, and scotch bonnet peppers to the blender.
4. Blend the green season mixture until smooth and well combined, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
5. Once blended, transfer the epis seasoning to airtight containers or jars for storage.
6. Use the epis seasoning to marinate meats, flavor rice dishes, enhance soups, or elevate any Haitian-inspired recipe.

In essence, epis transcends its role as a mere seasoning; it embodies the spirit of Haitian culinary heritage, uniting tradition, flavor, and community in every tantalizing bite.

Whether used to marinate meats or enhance soups and stews, epis remains a beloved symbol of Haitian culinary identity, inviting chefs and home cooks alike to savor the essence of Haitian flavor.

Recipes Made With Green Seasoning

Looking for some recipes you can blend this with? We've got you covered. Because of its rich flavor, this seasoning goes well with tons of recipes - whether as a marinade, dressing, as a dip, and more.

You can start with our own Jamaican Curry Chicken, made distinct with allspice, recaito our special green seasoning.

If you love steak, you can also try this Pepper Steak - a quick and delicious meal that you can serve to your family or friends.

Versatile Uses:

One of the defining features of Epis Haitian Green Seasoning is its versatility. This flavorful blend can be used in many dishes, elevating everything from marinades to sauces and soups. Here are just a few ways to incorporate Epis into your culinary creations:

Marinades: Use Epis as a base for marinades for chicken, pork, or seafood. The vibrant flavors will infuse the meat with a delicious Caribbean flair.

Sauces and Dips: Blend Epis with olive oil or mayonnaise to create a flavorful dipping sauce for appetizers or a zesty salad dressing.

Soups and Stews: Add a spoonful of Epis to soups, stews, or bean dishes for an extra layer of flavor. It pairs particularly well with hearty dishes like Haitian joumou soup or red bean stew.

Grilling and Roasting: Brush Epis onto vegetables before grilling or roasting to impart a savory, herbaceous flavor.

Tips For Making Haitian Green Seasoning

• Use only the fresh ingredients - this will give you the best-tasting seasoning.
• Experiment with spices and herbs that you like or that you can tolerate.
• You can make this seasoning by batch and keep them refrigerated.
• If you don't have a blender, you can use a food processor.

How Long Can You Store Epis?

If stored properly in a tightly sealed jar or container, you can store it in your refrigerator for a month with no problem. Want to prolong its shelf life? Freeze it. By freezing it, this will give you about two months or more.

Is Epis Spicy?

Not at all, if you can tolerate peppers then you'll be fine. Moreover, since this is usually used as a mixture/base the spice will dissipate and basically blend with the whole dish creating a unique taste. Now, if you love spice, you can add more peppers or even chili to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is Epis spicy? A: Epis can be spicy depending on the amount and type of hot peppers used in the recipe. Traditionally, Scotch bonnet peppers are used, which can add significant heat to the seasoning blend.
• Can I make Epis seasoning without certain ingredients? A: Epis seasoning can be customized based on personal preferences or ingredient availability. However, key ingredients like garlic, parsley, and thyme are essential for its authentic flavor.
• How long does Epis last in the refrigerator? A: Epis can typically last for about 1 to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Can Epis be frozen for long-term storage? A: Yes, Epis can be frozen for more extended storage. It is recommended that it be portioned into smaller containers or ice cube trays for easy use and thawing.
• Are there variations of Epis seasoning? A: There are variations of Epis seasoning based on regional preferences and family recipes. Some may include additional ingredients like celery, shallots, or different types of peppers.
• Can I use Epis in non-Haitian recipes? A: While Epis is traditionally used in Haitian cuisine, its flavorful profile can complement various dishes from different culinary traditions. Feel free to experiment and incorporate Epis into your favorite recipes.

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How did you like this recipe? Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Looking for anotherrecipe to use with your Epis? Try thisPineapple Jerk Chicken Kabobsrecipe next!