Name: Haitian-Inspired Basil Epis
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup basil leaves; ½ cup parsley leaves (roughly chopped); 2 medium organic bell pepper (seeded and roughly sliced (about 2 cups)); 1 small yellow onion (roughly chopped (about 1 cup)); 3 green onions (roughly chopped (about 1/2 cup)); 5 medium garlic cloves (roughly chopped); 3 clove spice (whole cloves); 3 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tsp thyme leaves; 2 tsp extra virgin cold-pressed olive oil (optional)

Haitian-Inspired Basil Epis is a cornerstone of Haitian cooking, bringing a burst of fresh, bold flavors to every meal. This essential seasoning blend is deeply rooted in Haiti's culinary heritage, where it’s used to elevate everything from meats to stews. This version is made with a mix of basil, parsley, bell pepper, onions, garlic, and thyme. It’s spiced with clove and brightened with lime juice. Blended with extra virgin olive oil, this epis is a versatile, flavorful paste that adds an authentic taste of Haiti to your kitchen.

1 cup basil leaves

½ cup parsley leaves (roughly chopped)

2 medium organic bell pepper (seeded and roughly sliced (about 2 cups))

1 small yellow onion (roughly chopped (about 1 cup))

3 green onions (roughly chopped (about 1/2 cup))

5 medium garlic cloves (roughly chopped)

3 clove spice (whole cloves)

3 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)

1 tsp thyme leaves

2 tsp extra virgin cold-pressed olive oil (optional)

Add all ingredients to a food processor and blend until chopped and mixed well but still chunky.

If using olive oil, drizzle it into the epis while the mixture continues to blend. Blend into a pesto-like consistency. It should still have some texture rather than a smooth consistency.

Store Haitian Epis in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze in ice cube trays and add them to dishes as you like. See suggestions below!