Traditional Surinamese dishes and drinks to try, and the best places to find them. Discover the flavors of Suriname through its local cuisine.

Exploring Suriname’s Local Cuisine: Traditional Dishes and Drinks to Try and Where to Find Them

Suriname, a small country located on the northeastern coast of South America, is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. This diversity is reflected in its local cuisine, which is a fusion of African, Indian, Indonesian, and Dutch influences. Suriname’s traditional dishes and drinks are a must-try for any foodie looking to explore the country’s unique culinary scene.

One of the most popular dishes in Suriname is roti, a flatbread that is typically served with a curry made from chicken, beef, or vegetables. The roti is made from a mixture of flour, water, and oil, and is cooked on a griddle until it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The curry is made with a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric, and is often served with a side of chutney or pickles. The best place to try roti in Suriname is at Roopram Roti Shop, a local chain that has been serving up delicious roti for over 60 years.

Another popular dish in Suriname is pom, a casserole made from grated cassava, chicken, and a variety of spices. The cassava is grated and mixed with chicken, onions, peppers, and other seasonings, then baked in a banana leaf until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Pom is often served with rice and beans, and is a staple at Surinamese celebrations and special occasions. The best place to try pom in Suriname is at Warung Mini, a small restaurant in Paramaribo that specializes in traditional Surinamese cuisine.

If you’re looking for something sweet, Suriname has plenty of delicious desserts to choose from. One of the most popular is bojo, a cake made from grated cassava, coconut, and sugar. The cake is baked until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside, and is often served with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Another popular dessert is gemberbier, a sweet and spicy ginger beer that is made from fresh ginger, sugar, and water. Gemberbier is a refreshing drink that is perfect for hot days, and can be found at most local markets and street vendors.

In addition to its traditional dishes and drinks, Suriname also has a thriving street food scene. One of the most popular street foods in Suriname is bara, a deep-fried dough that is stuffed with a spicy mixture of potatoes, onions, and herbs. Bara is often served with chutney or hot sauce, and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Another popular street food is bami, a noodle dish that is stir-fried with vegetables, chicken, and a variety of spices. Bami is often served with a side of sambal, a spicy chili paste that adds an extra kick to the dish.

If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, Suriname has plenty of restaurants that specialize in traditional Surinamese cuisine. One of the best is De Gadri, a restaurant located in Paramaribo that serves up a variety of Surinamese dishes, including pom, roti, and bami. The restaurant also has a beautiful outdoor seating area that overlooks the Suriname River, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

Another great restaurant to try in Suriname is Zus & Zo, a trendy eatery that specializes in fusion cuisine. The menu features a mix of Surinamese, Dutch, and Indonesian dishes, and the restaurant has a lively atmosphere that is perfect for a night out. Some of the must-try dishes at Zus & Zo include the nasi goreng, a spicy Indonesian fried rice, and the bitterballen, a Dutch snack made from beef ragout and breadcrumbs.

No matter where you go in Suriname, you’re sure to find delicious food and drinks that will tantalize your taste buds. From traditional dishes like roti and pom to street foods like bara and bami, Suriname’s local cuisine is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage. So why not take a culinary journey through Suriname and discover all the delicious flavors that this small South American country has to offer?