I was first introduced to this delicacy during one of my adventurous gastronomical travels across the Haitian landscape several years ago. From that moment, my taste buds were absolutely charmed! And since then, Tonmtonm has become a firm staple in my kitchen, delighting my family and friends with its rich and unique flavors.
So, come on this culinary journey with me as we celebrate the love for food and more importantly, unravel the magic of traditional Haitian cuisine through this delectable Tonmtonm Haiti recipe.
How to make Tonmtonm Haiti
There’s an undeniable magic in the Haitian kitchen when it comes to the Tonmtonm recipe. This delicate yet robust dish requires equal parts of precision and passion and of course, a reliable recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe and green breadfruit, peeled and cored
- Salt to taste
- Bowl of boiled water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Breadfruit:
- Start by selecting a ripe and green breadfruit. The breadfruit should be firm and not too soft. It’s important to choose the right breadfruit as it will affect the texture and taste of the dish.
- Peel the breadfruit using a sharp knife. Make a shallow cut around the breadfruit’s circumference and then use your hands or a knife to peel off the skin. Be careful, as the skin can be tough.
- Cut the peeled breadfruit in half and remove the core. The core can be quite fibrous and is usually not consumed in this dish.
2. Cut and Soak:
- Cut the peeled and cored breadfruit into bite-sized pieces. You can choose the size based on your preference, but smaller pieces tend to cook faster and more evenly.
- Place the breadfruit pieces in a bowl of boiled water. This step helps remove some of the latex in the breadfruit, which can cause a sticky texture. Soaking the breadfruit in hot water also helps to soften it slightly before cooking.
3. Boil the Breadfruit:
- Transfer the soaked breadfruit pieces to a pot and add enough water to cover them.
- Add salt to taste. The amount of salt you use will depend on your preference and the size of the breadfruit pieces. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
- Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the breadfruit until it becomes tender. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes, but the exact time may vary based on the size of the pieces and the ripeness of the breadfruit.
4. Mash and Serve:
- Once the breadfruit is tender, drain the water and transfer the cooked pieces to a bowl.
- Mash the breadfruit using a potato masher or a fork. You’re aiming for a slightly chunky texture, similar to mashed potatoes.
5. Serve Tonmtonm Haiti:
- Tonmtonm Haiti is typically served as a side dish alongside various main courses.
- It pairs well with different types of meat, seafood, or vegetarian dishes.
Tips:
- Choosing Breadfruit: The key to a good Tonmtonm Haiti is selecting the right breadfruit. Look for one that’s ripe but still firm. It should have a pleasant aroma and not be overly soft.
- Peeling and Coring: Make sure to peel the breadfruit thoroughly, removing all the tough skin. Also, remove the core, as it’s not usually pleasant to eat due to its fibrous nature.
- Soaking:Â Soaking the breadfruit in boiled water helps to remove the latex and soften the texture. You can also add a bit of salt to the soaking water to enhance the flavor.
- Cooking Time:Â The cooking time can vary based on factors like the size of the breadfruit pieces and their ripeness. Check the tenderness of the breadfruit by inserting a fork; it should easily slide in when done.
- Mashing:Â Aim for a slightly chunky texture when mashing the breadfruit. This provides a nice mouthfeel and adds some texture to the dish.
- Serving Suggestions:Â Tonmtonm Haiti is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of main courses. It complements both meat and vegetarian dishes, so feel free to pair it with your favorites.
What to serve with
- Grilled Chicken:Â Serve Tonmtonm Haiti alongside succulent grilled chicken. The slightly sweet and starchy flavors of the breadfruit mash complement the smokiness and savory taste of grilled chicken. You can marinate the chicken with a flavorful spice rub or a marinade of your choice before grilling.
- Fried Fish:Â Crispy fried fish pairs wonderfully with the soft and textured Tonmtonm Haiti. The contrast between the crispy exterior of the fish and the creamy breadfruit mash creates a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
- Stewed Goat Meat: The richness of stewed goat meat complements the mellow and comforting tones of the breadfruit. The tender goat meat and flavorful stew juices provide a hearty and satisfying contrast to the breadfruit’s texture.
- Vegetable Stew: For a vegetarian option, pair Tonmtonm Haiti with a hearty vegetable stew. The breadfruit’s mild flavor acts as a canvas for the diverse flavors of vegetables, herbs, and spices in the stew.
- Fried Plantains:Â Sweet fried plantains are a great accompaniment to Tonmtonm Haiti. Their natural sweetness adds a burst of flavor that works well with the neutral taste of the breadfruit mash.
- Seafood Medley: Combine Tonmtonm Haiti with a medley of seafood such as shrimp, crab, and mussels. The seafood’s briny and oceanic flavors contrast beautifully with the earthy tones of the breadfruit.
- Braised Pork: The tenderness and richness of braised pork go hand in hand with the creamy texture of the breadfruit mash. The dish is a celebration of flavors, with the pork’s succulence enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Roasted Vegetables:Â Roasted vegetables, with their caramelized edges and vibrant flavors, create a lovely partnership with Tonmtonm Haiti. The roasted vegetables bring depth to the plate, while the breadfruit adds a comforting element.
- Coconut Curry:Â A fragrant and creamy coconut curry, whether featuring chicken, vegetables, or seafood, offers a delightful contrast to the mild and starchy nature of the breadfruit.
- Lentil Stew: Opt for a hearty lentil stew if you’re looking for a protein-rich pairing. The lentils add substance and depth to the meal, while the breadfruit contributes its unique texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Tonmtonm Haiti recipe is the easiest to cook. It can be eaten at any place, any time of the day. It’s also very healthy. You could prepare it for breakfast, lunch, snack etc. It’s your choice!
More Fruit Based Recipes:
Ingredients
- 1 ripe and green breadfruit, peeled and cored
- Salt to taste
- Bowl of boiled water
Instructions
1. Prepare the Breadfruit:
- Start by selecting a ripe and green breadfruit. The breadfruit should be firm and not too soft. It's important to choose the right breadfruit as it will affect the texture and taste of the dish.
- Peel the breadfruit using a sharp knife. Make a shallow cut around the breadfruit's circumference and then use your hands or a knife to peel off the skin. Be careful, as the skin can be tough.
- Cut the peeled breadfruit in half and remove the core. The core can be quite fibrous and is usually not consumed in this dish.
2. Cut and Soak:
- Cut the peeled and cored breadfruit into bite-sized pieces. You can choose the size based on your preference, but smaller pieces tend to cook faster and more evenly.
- Place the breadfruit pieces in a bowl of boiled water. This step helps remove some of the latex in the breadfruit, which can cause a sticky texture. Soaking the breadfruit in hot water also helps to soften it slightly before cooking.
3. Boil the Breadfruit:
- Transfer the soaked breadfruit pieces to a pot and add enough water to cover them.
- Add salt to taste. The amount of salt you use will depend on your preference and the size of the breadfruit pieces. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
- Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the breadfruit until it becomes tender. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes, but the exact time may vary based on the size of the pieces and the ripeness of the breadfruit.
4. Mash and Serve:
- Once the breadfruit is tender, drain the water and transfer the cooked pieces to a bowl.
- Mash the breadfruit using a potato masher or a fork. You're aiming for a slightly chunky texture, similar to mashed potatoes.
5. Serve Tonmtonm Haiti:
- Tonmtonm Haiti is typically served as a side dish alongside various main courses.
- It pairs well with different types of meat, seafood, or vegetarian dishes.
