Culinary Delights of Suriname: Exploring Local Dishes, Iconic Restaurants & Traditional Recipes

Suriname, nestled on the northeastern coast of South America, offers a rich tapestry of cultural influences and a diverse culinary scene. With its unique blend of Indigenous, African, Indian, Chinese, Javanese, and Dutch influences, Surinamese cuisine is a true melting pot of flavors. From delicious street food to formal dining experiences, this guide will take you on a journey through the world of Surinamese gastronomy.

Local Dishes

Surinamese cuisine boasts a wide range of delectable dishes. One iconic dish is the "Roti," a flavorful Indian flatbread served with various curries, vegetables, and either chicken, beef, or shrimp. Another popular option is "Pom," a dish of baked chicken or fish in a flavorful sauce made with pomtayer, a root vegetable native to Suriname. Additionally, "Saoto Soup" is a favorite among locals, featuring a chicken broth base with noodles, bean sprouts, boiled egg, and various condiments.

Iconic Restaurants

Suriname is home to several iconic restaurants that showcase the best of its cuisine. Here are a few must-visit establishments:

Roopram Roti House

Located in the heart of Paramaribo, Roopram Roti House offers an authentic Surinamese dining experience. Their roti dishes are highly recommended, and the vibrant atmosphere adds to the overall enjoyment.

Restaurant Sarinah

Restaurant Sarinah, also situated in Paramaribo, specializes in Indonesian and Javanese cuisine. This family-owned establishment has been serving traditional dishes for over 40 years, and their rijsttafel (rice table) is a must-try.

Baka Foto

For a taste of Creole cuisine, head to Baka Foto in Paramaribo. Their menu features classic dishes like moksi meti (mixed rice with various meat) and pastei (a savory pastry filled with meat, chicken, or vegetables).

Traditional Recipes

If you're looking to recreate the flavors of Suriname in your own kitchen, here are a couple of traditional recipes to try:

Roti Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the warm water and knead until the dough becomes smooth.
2. Divide the dough into small balls and roll each ball into a thin, round roti.
3. Heat a flat griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Cook each roti for about 1-2 minutes on each side, brushing with oil.
4. Serve hot with your choice of curries, vegetables, and meats.

Pom Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken or fish
• 3 pounds pomtayer (grated)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup water

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, marinate the chicken or fish with the tomato paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
2. In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the marinated chicken or fish and cook until slightly browned.
3. Add the grated pomtayer, orange juice, and water to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the pom is cooked through.
5. Serve the pom hot and enjoy this flavorful Surinamese delicacy.

Explore Surinamese Cuisine

The best way to fully experience Surinamese cuisine is to immerse yourself in the local food scene. From street vendors offering mouthwatering snacks like bara (fried dough) and pom chips, to local markets brimming with fresh produce and spices, there are endless opportunities to tantalize your taste buds. So grab a culinary map, venture into the vibrant neighborhoods, and let your senses guide you through the flavors of Suriname.

Suriname Culinary Map