Soup Joumou, Haitian Pumpkin Soup

Soup Joumou is part of Haitian culture. Every January first, to celebrate the holiday and wish good luck for the New Year, pumpkin soup is prepared and shared in every family unit all around the country.

Since 1978, Save the Children’s teams have been working in Haiti, providing a healthy start, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm – every day and in times of crisis. In the country’s darkest hours after the devastating earthquake, our emergency responders were on the ground – saving lives, feeding families and keeping children safe. We are proud of what we have accomplished and extend our thanks to every donor who has supported this work.

Soup Joumou Recipe
(Pumpkin Soup)
Serves 8

Ingredients:
1 pound beef brisket
1 pound beef knuckles (sirloin tip) 
1 pound pumpkin, cut into pieces
1 medium onion, sliced into rounds
1/4 pound vermicelli
3 large carrots, cut into pieces

Instructions:
Use a large pot to boil the beef and the knuckles. When the meat begins to be tender (about 2 hours, or 1 hour in pressure cooker) add all vegetables and pumpkin.

Continue boiling until meat is tender and vegetables are cooked (½ hour).
Turn off the heat and let cool.

Blend cooked pumpkin with some water in low speed. Return the pumpkin liquid to the pot and bring it to a boil. Let the onions, cut into rounds, be cooked slightly in a spoonful of oil. Add butter, vinegar, onions and lemon juice to the soup. Add vermicelli and simmer until cooked.