Name: Haitian Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Haitian
Ingredients: ½ lb Spaghetti; ¼ cup Olive oil; 2 tbsp Haitian Epis; 1 Onion, chopped; 1 Green Bell Pepper, diced; 1 Red Bell Pepper, diced; 2 Roma Tomatoes, diced; 2 tbsp Tomato paste; 3 small Maggi cubes; 4 Hot Dogs, cut into rounds; ⅛ tsp ground Cloves; ⅓ cup reserved pasta water; Salt, to taste; 2 Hard boiled eggs

If you’ve ever wondered how to bring a burst of Caribbean flavor and vibrant colors to your dinner table, this Haitian Spaghetti Recipe is your answer. It’s a delightful fusion of tender spaghetti noodles layered with a rich, flavorful sauce made from Haitian epis, fresh vegetables, and a surprising twist of sliced hot dogs. This dish is a true comfort meal that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly tasty, making it a beloved staple in Haitian households and soon to be a favorite in yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black frying pan with a silver handle is sitting on a white marbled surface. Inside the pan, there are three sections of chopped vegetables: white onions on the left, green bell peppers on the top right, and red tomatoes on the bottom right. The vegetables are fresh and finely chopped, filling the pan evenly with their bright colors. The pan handle and the stovetop beneath it are clearly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Haitian Spaghetti Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a key role in building its unique and satisfying flavor. From aromatic Haitian epis to fresh bell peppers and the subtle hint of ground cloves, every component adds depth, color, and texture that make the dish pop on your plate.

½ lb Spaghetti: The classic base that soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly.
¼ cup Olive oil: Adds richness and helps saute the epis for maximum fragrance.
2 tbsp Haitian Epis: The secret flavor powerhouse—this herb and spice blend gives the dish its authentic Caribbean soul.
1 Onion (chopped): Provides sweetness and texture as it softens in the sauce.
1 Green Bell Pepper (diced): Adds a mild crunch and fresh color.
1 Red Bell Pepper (diced): Offers a hint of sweetness and vibrant red tone.
2 Roma Tomatoes (diced): Lends a juicy freshness that balances the spices.
2 tbsp Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and amps up the tomato intensity.
3 small Maggi cubes: Boosts umami flavor, reminiscent of savory depth.
4 Hot Dogs (cut into rounds): Adds a nostalgic, satisfying bite and cooks right into the sauce.
⅛ tsp ground Cloves: A subtle sprinkle of warm spice that elevates the entire dish.
⅓ cup water: Helps bring the sauce together as it simmers.
Salt (to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
2 Hard boiled eggs: A classic Haitian touch that adds creaminess and balance when served.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Haitian Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by boiling your spaghetti until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—tender but with a slight bite. Don’t forget to save a few ladles of that starchy pasta water, as it’s gold for enriching your sauce later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Haitian Epis

In a large saucepan, warm up the olive oil, and then add the Haitian epis. As it cooks, the kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma. You’re looking for the epis to turn a lovely golden color and release its complex fragrance, which forms the base note for the dish.

Step 3: Add Fresh Vegetables

Toss in the chopped onions, diced green and red bell peppers, along with the diced Roma tomatoes. Sauté everything together for about five minutes until the vegetables soften just enough to blend their freshness into the sauce without losing their delightful texture.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Mix in the tomato paste for thickness and those three Maggi cubes to add a boost of savory depth. Then, stir in the sliced hot dogs and sprinkle in ground cloves. This step brings a cozy warmth and a touch of nostalgia, making the sauce truly unforgettable.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Pour in the reserved pasta water and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken just right. Be sure to taste and season with salt to suit your preference.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Finally, add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, stirring well until every strand is coated in that luscious, flavorful mix. Portion the pasta onto plates and finish with half of a hard-boiled egg on each serving for that authentic Haitian touch. Now, dig in and enjoy!

How to Serve Haitian Spaghetti Recipe

The image shows a black cooking pan filled with a spaghetti dish standing on a white marbled surface. The dish has long, light brown spaghetti noodles mixed with slices of brown sausage scattered evenly throughout. There are also small pieces of red and green bell peppers and onions mixed in, giving the dish a colorful touch. The spaghetti is coated with a light tomato sauce that adds a shiny texture to the noodles. The pan has silver handles and a black temperature knob visible on the lower right side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your Haitian Spaghetti Recipe truly pop, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or chopped scallions. These add a fresh, herbal contrast that brightens the dish and complements the rich sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

This spaghetti stands strong on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp salads or sautéed leafy greens like kale or spinach. A side of fried plantains also brings an extra layer of sweetness and crunch that’s perfectly balanced against the savory noodles.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the spaghetti in colorful bowls or on rustic wooden plates to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Haitian cuisine. For gatherings, offer a topping bar with sliced hot peppers, extra boiled eggs, or even some grated cheese to let everyone customize their plate with little bursts of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Haitian Spaghetti Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen after resting overnight, so it’s perfect for make-ahead lunches or easy weeknight dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, though it’s best to separate the pasta and sauce if possible. Place them in freezer-safe containers and store for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavors.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s luscious consistency. Avoid microwaving directly from frozen, as it can make the pasta clump or become mushy.

FAQs

What is Haitian epis and where can I find it?

Haitian epis is a fragrant blend of herbs, garlic, peppers, and spices used as a staple flavor base in Haitian cooking. You can find it at Caribbean markets or make your own blend at home with fresh ingredients.

Can I substitute hot dogs with something else?

Absolutely! While hot dogs are traditional and add a nostalgic touch, you can swap them for sausage, chicken, or even keep the dish vegetarian by adding mushrooms or plant-based protein.

Is this dish spicy?

Haitian Spaghetti Recipe has a mild warmth from spices but isn’t overly spicy. If you enjoy heat, feel free to add fresh hot peppers or a dash of hot sauce when serving.

What’s the purpose of the hard boiled eggs in the recipe?

The eggs add richness and creaminess that balance the tangy, savory sauce. They are a traditional Haitian addition that makes the dish more filling and adds pleasing contrast.

Can I use other types of pasta?

While spaghetti is classic here, feel free to experiment with linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Just keep in mind that thinner noodles work best to capture the sauce.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Haitian Spaghetti Recipe—its vibrant flavors capture the warmth and soul of Haitian cooking in every bite. I encourage you to give it a try, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a delicious and hearty meal. Trust me, once you taste it, this recipe will hold a permanent place in your kitchen rotation.