Suriname might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of culinary adventures, but it should be. This small country in South America has a diverse and unique food scene that reflects its multi-ethnic culture. Because of the influences from Indian, African, Javanese, and Chinese immigrants, you can get some really flavorful and interesting dishes here.
The best part? You don’t have to spend a lot to eat well. From street food to local markets, you can find authentic Surinamese cuisine almost everywhere, and the price tag will rarely break the bank. Let’s dive into what you need to eat when you’re visiting Suriname, where to find it, and why these dishes are must-tries for any traveler.
Surinamese Cuisine: A Mix of Cultures
The local food here is a melting pot of cultures, fusing elements from India, Indonesia, Africa, and China. You’ll also notice Creole influences in many of the dishes, along with a strong presence of Dutch flavors, thanks to Suriname’s colonial past.
Rice is a staple, and so are cassava, plantains, and chicken. Spices like curry, garlic, and ginger dominate the flavor profile, while ingredients like coconut milk, tamarind, and peppers often elevate those flavors further. Expect rich, bold, and well-balanced meals that are full of character.
Must-Try Dishes in Suriname
Pom
Pom is a rich and hearty dish that’s often served during celebrations. It’s made from grated pomtajer (a type of tuber) mixed with chicken or beef, seasoned with tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. The combination is then baked until golden brown. It’s a bit like a savory pie, and the tangy-sweet flavor will have you hooked after just one bite. Locals love it, and so will you.
Roti
If you love Indian food, Surinamese roti is something you’ll want to try as soon as possible. A large flatbread is served with chunks of potato, chicken, and a flavorful curry sauce. You can either wrap the bread around the filling or just rip off pieces of soft, doughy goodness to eat with the curry.
This dish is everywhere, from restaurants to local markets. Don’t expect a knife and fork. This is a hands-on experience!
Sate (Satay)
Sate is a dish that reflects the Javanese influence in Suriname. Grilled chicken or beef is skewered and served with a rich peanut sauce. The meat is soft and smoky, while the sauce is creamy and savory with a hint of sweetness. This is a favorite for street food and snack lovers in Suriname.
Bara
Bara is another Indian-inspired dish you need to try. It’s a lentil-based deep-fried snack, somewhat similar to a donut but savory. It’s usually seasoned with turmeric, garlic, and cumin, resulting in a slightly spicy flavor. You often find vendors selling it on the streets, making it a quick and tasty snack to grab on the go.
Moksi Meti
If you’re a meat lover, Moksi Meti (meaning “mixed meat”) needs to be on your food list. It’s a platter of several types of roasted meat—typically a mix of pork, chicken, and beef—that’s served with rice or noodles. The dish highlights the Creole and Chinese influences in Suriname, offering a mouth-watering mix of flavors and textures.
Peperpot
Peperpot is a traditional Creole stew that defines comfort food. It’s made with slow-cooked beef or chicken, all simmered in a spicy sauce made from cassareep (a thickened extract from cassava). The stew gets its depth of flavor from the long cooking time, and it’s filled with a tender, fall-apart texture you won’t forget. It’s usually served with rice, and it’s both spicy and savory, perfect for those who like dishes with a kick.
Saoto Soup
Another Javanese dish that’s a must-try is Saoto Soup. Think of it as a hearty chicken broth filled with shredded chicken, boiled eggs, glass noodles, and vegetables. It’s rich in flavor and served with a side of crispy fried potatoes. Locals love it as a winter dish, but really, it’s too good to limit to one season.
Bakabana
If you’re into sweet treats, you’ll love bakabana. This is basically fried plantain, covered in a batter and fried until golden brown. It’s served with a side of sweet peanut or spicy soy sauce, but it’s sweet enough to enjoy on its own. You’ll usually find it sold by street vendors, making it a great snack if you’re craving something simple and satisfying.
Popular Street Foods in Suriname
Street food is where Suriname really shines. It’s cheap, delicious, and found almost everywhere. Whether you’re exploring a market in Paramaribo or lost in a side street, you’ll be able to find vendors selling these classics.
Loempia
Much like spring rolls, loempia is a deep-fried wrap filled with vegetables, chicken, or shrimp. It’s crunchy on the outside, with a savory filling on the inside. Pair it with some chili sauce, and you’re good to go.
Pastei
Pastei is Suriname’s version of the empanada. This pastry is filled with a mixture of chicken, green beans, and sometimes even raisins. It has a soft crust and a rich filling, offering just enough sweetness to balance the savory stuffing.
Kroepoek
Snack time in Suriname isn’t complete without krupuk, crunchy shrimp chips that are insanely addictive. These are perfect with a cold beer as you watch the world go by. Simple, salty, and satisfying—what more do you need?
Boyo
This street dessert is made from grated cassava, coconut, and sometimes raisins, all sweetened with sugar. It’s baked to perfection and served in squares. The slight chewiness from the cassava and the sweetness make it a favorite for locals and tourists alike.
Where to Eat: From Street Food to Fine Dining
Suriname’s food scene thrives both on the streets and in restaurants. Here’s a look at some top spots to get the best bites.
Paramaribo Market
When in Paramaribo, you have to hit the local markets. The best is the Central Market, where all sorts of food stalls pop up early in the morning. You’ll get fresh fruit, spices, and street food. This is a great spot to try bara, loempia, and pastei.
Blauwgrond
Blauwgrond is an area in Paramaribo known for its Javanese food stalls. If you’re craving sate or saoto soup, this is the place to be. The street fills up with people at night, and the food is both cheap and delicious.
Garden of Eden (Paramaribo)
For a little fine dining experience, head to Garden of Eden. Located in the capital, this restaurant offers a mix of international and traditional Surinamese dishes. The atmosphere is relatively laid-back, but the food quality is top-notch. Try the moksi meti or even the more experimental dishes that blend local ingredients with international cuisine.
Warung (Various Locations)
If you want to experience traditional Javanese food at its best, head to a warung. These small eateries are scattered around Suriname, and while basic, the food is authentic. You can’t go wrong ordering the sate or saoto soup.
Roopram Roti (Paramaribo)
One of the best places to grab roti in Paramaribo is Roopram Roti. This place is a go-to for locals, and for good reason. The portions are big, the food is simple but flavorful, and the price won’t disappoint. It’s one of those places where the quality matches the hype.
Street Vendors and Night Markets
The streets of Paramaribo light up at night with street vendors selling everything from grilled meats to sweets. One of the best parts of Suriname’s street food scene is just wandering around at night and finding something interesting to try. The atmosphere is vibrant, making mealtime feel more like an event, with food, drinks, and music in every corner.
Conclusion
Suriname’s food scene offers a rich tapestry of flavors and influences. Whether you’re savoring a slow-cooked stew or grabbing roti from a street vendor, you’ll find that every meal here has the potential to surprise and delight. The country’s multicultural influences ensure that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re on a tight budget or want to treat yourself to fine dining, Suriname delivers.
Don’t be afraid to try new things and sample as much food as you can. That’s where the magic happens. And be sure to try the street food. Some of the best surprises come from the simplest of places.
Leave a reply