Black Mushroom Rice
(Diri ak Djon Djon)
This recipe uses black mushrooms, which are a specialty of Haiti. They're not used in everyday cooking because they're a bit of a delicacy. But when you do boil them, they release a gray-black color that gives this rice dish its distinctive look, flavor, and aroma. Black mushroom rice is usually served with a meat or fish dish and a side of Pikay Fire Slaw. It's a delicious and unique dish that's perfect for a special occasion.
Black Mushroom Rice
Ingredients:
2 cups dried black mushrooms (djon djon)
2 tablespoons epis seasoning (or a mixture of finely chopped garlic, onion, parsley, and bell peppers)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups long-grain rice
2 teaspoons salt
3-4 cloves garlic
1 (12-ounce) bag frozen sweet peas
1 to 2 thyme sprigs
1 tablespoon Pikay Fire Slaw (optional)
Instructions:
Soak the mushrooms in 4 cups of water overnight, or for a minimum of 2 hours. Don't throw away the water!
After soaking, boil the mushrooms on low heat for 10 minutes to release their juices, flavors, and color.
Strain the mushroom water into another container for later use. Discard the mushrooms.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil and sauté the epis seasoning on medium heat for 2 minutes.
Add the rice and stir for 3-5 minutes.
Next, add the mushroom water, salt, garlic, sweet peas, and Pikay Fire Slaw (if using).
Bring the water to a boil, then stir the rice and reduce the heat to simmer. Cover the pot and steam the rice for 15 minutes.
Add the thyme sprigs and cover the pot for another 5 minutes.
Serve and enjoy!
This recipe is vegetarian, but you can add meat or fish if you like. Serve with a side of Pickay Fire Slaw for a complete meal.
Tips:
If you don't have epis seasoning, you can make your own by mixing together finely chopped garlic, onion, parsley, and bell peppers.
If you don't have Pikay Fire Slaw, you can substitute chopped scotch bonnet peppers.
To make sure your rice is cooked through, insert a fork into the center of the pot. If there is still liquid, cook for a few more minutes.
Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. For example, you could add chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the rice. Or, you could try using a different type of rice, such as brown rice or wild rice.
Have fun cooking!