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LUNCH

Haitian Fried Turkey (Tassot de Dinde) with Rice and Beans

Savor the authentic taste of Haiti with this Tassot de Dinde recipe. Tender pieces of turkey are marinated in a vibrant epis, then fried to perfection and served alongside a comforting plate of classic rice and beans. This hearty and flavorful meal is a true culinary journey.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

In a large bowl, combine the turkey cubes, Haitian epis, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all turkey pieces are coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.

02

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the long-grain white rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes, or until all water is absorbed and rice is tender. Fluff with a fork.

03

While the rice cooks, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the marinated turkey pieces in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.

04

Fry the turkey for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the fried turkey from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

05

In a separate small saucepan, combine the rinsed kidney beans with 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until heated through. Season with a pinch of salt if desired.

06

Serve the Haitian Tassot de Dinde hot, accompanied by the fluffy white rice and warm kidney beans.

About This Recipe

Savor the authentic taste of Haiti with this Tassot de Dinde recipe. Tender pieces of turkey are marinated in a vibrant epis, then fried to perfection and served alongside a comforting plate of classic rice and beans. This hearty and flavorful meal is a true culinary journey.
Haitian Fried Turkey (Tassot de Dinde) with Rice and Beans
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme to the rice while it cooks. You can also add a small amount of coconut milk to the beans for a creamier texture.
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Easy Substitutions

Chicken can be used instead of turkey for a similar flavor profile. For the epis, if unavailable, a blend of garlic, bell peppers, onions, and herbs can be pulsed in a food processor. Black beans can replace kidney beans.
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Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Tassot de Dinde, rice, and beans separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of spicy pikliz (Haitian pickled cabbage and carrots) for a tangy kick. A simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the fried turkey. For a more complete meal, add some fried plantains (banan peze).

Common Mistakes

Overcrowding the pan when frying the turkey can lead to steaming instead of frying, resulting in less crispy meat. Fry in batches to ensure even browning. Not marinating the turkey long enough will result in less flavorful meat; allow at least 30 minutes. Overcooking the turkey will make it dry and tough, so monitor cooking times carefully. Forgetting to rinse the canned beans can lead to excess sodium and a metallic taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in turkey?

Yes, bone-in turkey can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly to ensure it's cooked through.

What if I don't have Haitian epis?

You can make a quick substitute by blending 1/2 green bell pepper, 1/4 onion, 3 cloves garlic, 1/4 cup parsley, and a pinch of thyme.

Can I bake the turkey instead of frying?

While frying gives the traditional crispy texture, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through, for a healthier option.
MORE TO KNOW
Haitian epis is a foundational seasoning blend in Haitian cuisine, often made with a vibrant mix of bell peppers, onions, garlic, parsley, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers. It's used as a marinade, a base for sauces, and a flavor enhancer in many dishes. Preparing a batch of epis ahead of time can significantly speed up meal preparation for various Haitian recipes. The key to great Tassot de Dinde is a good marinade and achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the turkey moist inside.
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