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Griot from Haiti

Griot

Citrus-marinated pork braised then fried crisp. ยท Haiti

๐Ÿ“ Nationwide โ˜… 4.5
Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Reviewed by the WhatWhereVacay editorial team

Citrus-marinated pork braised then fried crisp.

About Griot

Pork shoulder is marinated in sour orange and Scotch bonnet, braised until tender, then fried until the edges crisp and caramelise. Served with pikliz slaw and fried plantain, it is the pride of Haitian cooking.

๐Ÿ›๏ธ History & Culture

Griot, Haiti's beloved fried pork dish, traces its roots to the culinary traditions of the African diaspora, particularly West African methods of marinating and frying meat. Its preparation reflects a fusion of indigenous Taรญno techniques (like using sour orange) with French and African influences brought through colonialism. The dish is deeply tied to Haitian national identity, often served during celebrations, family gatherings, and holidays, symbolizing resilience and communal pride.

Regional variations across Haiti exist, with some cooks adding citrus like lime or using different cuts, but the core methodโ€”marinating in sour orange and Scotch bonnet, braising, then fryingโ€”remains consistent. In the diaspora, especially in the U.S. and Canada, griot has become an iconic comfort food, paired with pikliz (spicy pickled slaw) and fried plantains. While its exact origins are debated, its status as a cultural touchstone is undisputed, bridging rural and urban Haitian life.

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Ingredients
Steps

Griot โ€” frequently asked questions

What is Griot?

Pork shoulder is marinated in sour orange and Scotch bonnet, braised until tender, then fried until the edges crisp and caramelise. Served with pikliz slaw and fried plantain, it is the pride of Haitian cooking.

What is Griot made of?

Griot is made with pork shoulder, sour orange, Scotch bonnet, garlic and pikliz.

Where does Griot come from?

Griot comes from Haiti, and is especially associated with Nationwide. Griot, Haiti's beloved fried pork dish, traces its roots to the culinary traditions of the African diaspora, particularly West African methods of marinating and frying meat.

Where can I eat Griot?

A Haitian table, with spicy pikliz and fried plantain.

โ†’ More traditional dishes from Haiti

Taste Griot in Haiti

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โœ… Before you go to Haiti

Round out your trip โ€” most travellers book these alongside their trip.

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