In Haitian cuisine, Diri Ak Djon Djon (Black Mushroom Rice) is a beloved staple dish that’s both flavorful and aromatic.

This iconic recipe combines the rich, earthy flavor of Haitian black mushrooms with the comforting warmth of rice, all infused with a hint of spicy Scotch bonnet peppers.

Ready Time

1 hrs 30 mins

Yields

9 servings

Ingredients

Long grain rice 2 1/4 cups
Water 4 cups
Vegetable oil 2 tablespoons
Onion 1 medium, chopped
Garlic 3 cloves, minced
Scotch bonnet pepper 1, chopped
Haitian black mushrooms (djon djon) 2 cups, rinsed and drained
Maggi cubes 2
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon

Instructions

Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear, then drain and set aside.

In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

Add the chopped Scotch bonnet pepper and sauté for another minute.

Add the Haitian black mushrooms and sauté until they start to release their liquid, about 3 minutes.

Add the Maggi cubes, salt, and black pepper, and stir to combine.

Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with the mixture.

Add the water to the pot and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.

Turn off the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

Notes

Use a high quality long grain rice for the best results, as it will yield a better texture. Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which will prevent the rice from becoming mushy.

Don’t over-saute the onion, garlic, and Scotch bonnet pepper, as they can quickly go from sautéed to burnt.

Haitian black mushrooms can be substituted with other types of mushrooms if they’re not available. Use gloves when handling Scotch bonnet peppers, as the oils in the peppers can cause skin irritation.

Maggi cubes can be replaced with chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor.

For a spicier dish, add more Scotch bonnet peppers or use hot sauce to taste. To ensure the rice cooks evenly, make sure the heat is low and the pot is covered tightly.

Let the rice rest for the full 5 minutes to allow the steam to redistribute, making the rice fluffy and tender.