Diri ak pwa

Diri ak pwa, also called diri kole ak pwa, is the national dish of Haiti, consisting of rice and beans. The dish became a common, everyday staple during the period of slavery, when rice and beans were two of the few ingredients that were fed to the slaves by their owners.

It can be made with a variety of beans, but pinto, red kidney beans, and black beans are the most common options. Diri ak pwa is exceptionally nutritious as rice is rich in starch and contains iron, vitamin B, and protein, while the beans also contain iron and a greater amount of protein than rice.

When combined, they make a complete protein. A true Haitian classic, you can see diri ak pwa eaten everywhere on the island, and as the locals say "A meal is not a meal without a side of rice and beans." Even though the dish is tasty and nutritious on its own, Haitians often serve it with a lot of sauce, and it is best paired with Creole chicken or topped with red snapper, tomatoes, and onions.

Another interesting accompaniment to diri ak pwa is bouillon, a hearty stew consisting of tomatoes, potatoes, spices, and goat or beef meat.