A Haitian Delicacy made in your own home

Black Mushroom Rice

This Black Mushroom Rice (Diri ak Djon Djon) recipe uses black mushrooms which are native to the northern part of Haiti. These mushrooms are considered to be a delicacy and are not used in everyday cooking. You can buy the mushrooms at most Caribbean markets and grocery stores. When the mushrooms are boiled, they release a grayish black coloring, this gives the food a distinct aroma and flavor. This rice is usually served with a meat or fish.

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 tsp Ground cloves
• 1 (12-ounce) can lima beans (or green peas)
• 1 to 2 thyme sprigs
• 1 green Scotch bonnet pepper

Method

1. In small pot, soak mushrooms in 4 cups water for 10 minutes
2. Boil mushrooms on low heat for 10 minutes
3. Strain the mushroom water into a container for later. The mushrooms in the strainer will no longer be needed
4. In a large pot, sauté the garlic and onions on medium heat for 2 minutes.
5. Add the rice and stir for 3-5 min
6. Add the mushroom water, salt, cloves and lima beans
7. Bring the water to a boil and reduce the heat when some of the water evaporates this should take approximately 10-15 minutes
8. Stir the rice and set the temperature to low
9. Add Scotch bonnet pepper and thyme
10. Cover the pot and steam the rice for 15 min
11. Serve and enjoy!