Soup Joumou

For many people on the planet, January 1st represents the beginning of a new year. Regardless to the country of origin or the way people celebrate this day, New Year's practices often boil in Greetings; health, money, happiness, love, success etc.

In Haiti, January 1st symbolize the victory over slavery. Indeed, on January 1st, 1804, Haiti became the first country to revolt against slavery.After their victory over Napoleon's army, the slaves decided to cook a squash soup with celery, onions, carrots, potatoes, cabbage and meat. This meal was apparently prohibited to them when they were slaves.

Today, this soup is associated with the new year but especially with the end of slavery for Haitian people. That is why all Haitian households proudly prepare "soup joumou" on January 1st.

Soup Joumou is the traditional The soup is also served on Sunday morning at breakfast with bread. New Year’s Day is approaching and it is time again for one of the most popular tradition in the Haitian Culture. On January 1st 1804, the slaves had squash soup to celebrate their independence. The tradition remains Soup Joumou, (Creole) Soupe de Giraumon or Squash Soup. Traditionally served on New Year’s Day, Soup Joumou is made with a type of squash-called calabaza, West Indian pumpkin or giraumon. Depending on were you live, the squash will have a different name. The soup is prepared early in the day and is served all morning to family, friends and visitors as they wish each other a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year.