Haitian Epis (Green Seasoning)

The aromatic green seasoning base behind nearly every Haitian dish — a vibrant blend of peppers, garlic, herbs, and citrus you'll reach for constantly.

Prep
15 min
Cook
0 min
Total
15 min
Makes
2 cups
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Why you'll love this recipe

Epis is the soul of Haitian cooking — a fragrant green seasoning that does the heavy lifting in everything from griot to legim. Make one batch and you'll have the backbone of a dozen recipes waiting in your fridge.

Make it your own

Every Haitian household has its own epis. Add bell peppers of different colors, a little celery, or extra scotch bonnet for heat — there's no single right version.

Haitian Epis (Green Seasoning)
15 min · 2 cups

Ingredients

Servings
2 cups
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic
  • 1 bunch parsley
  • 4 scallions
  • 1 small onion, quartered
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper (optional)
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • ¼ cup olive oil

Instructions

  1. Add the bell pepper, garlic, parsley, scallions, onion, thyme, and scotch bonnet to a blender or food processor.
  2. Pour in the lime juice and olive oil to help everything blend smoothly.
  3. Blend to a coarse paste, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
  4. Transfer to a clean jar and refrigerate up to 2 weeks, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

Nutrition (per serving)

25
Calories
0g
Protein
2g
Carbs
2g
Fat

Frequently asked questions

What is epis used for?
Epis is the flavor base for almost every savory Haitian dish — meats, rice, beans, soups, and stews. Marinate proteins in it or stir it into the pot.
How long does epis last?
It keeps about 2 weeks in the fridge in a sealed jar. Freeze it in an ice-cube tray for ready-to-use portions that last up to 3 months.

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