Diri ak Djon Djon, A Haitian Rice Dish

Rita Joseph, Council District 40:
Crown Heights, East Flatbush, Flatbush, Kensington, Midwood, Prospect Park, and Prospect Lefferts Gardens

This dish is significant and special to many people in the Haitian community including myself during the holidays. I am so proud to share this dish with you so that you can get a chance to taste Haitian cuisine.

 
 

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of dried black mushrooms (djon djon)

  • 3 garlic cloves minced

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 small onion chopped

  • 2 cups long-grain rice

  • 2 teaspoons salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground cloves

  • 1 (12 ounce) can of lima beans (or green peas)

  • 1 to 2 thyme sprigs

  • 1 green Scotch bonnet pepper

Directions

  • In a small pot, soak mushrooms in 4 cups of water for 10 minutes. 

  • Boil mushrooms on low heat for 10 minutes. 

  • Strain the mushroom water into another container for later use. The mushrooms in the strainer will no longer be needed. 

  • In a large pot, sauté the garlic and onions on medium heat for 2 minutes. 

  • Add the rice and stir for 3-5 minutes.

  • Next, add the mushroom water, salt, cloves, and lima beans. 

  • Bring the water to a boil and reduce the heat when most of the water evaporates (approximately 10-15 minutes). 

  • Stir the rice, and set the temperature to low. 

  • Add Scotch bonnet pepper and thyme. 

  • Cover the pot and steam the rice for 15 minutes. Enjoy!

 

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