These are spicy beef pieces that we marinate in a special mix called Haitian epis. It’s a favorite in Haiti for its big flavor and crispy texture. Whether you’re snacking, adding it to a meal, or serving it at a party, these beef bites are sure to be a hit.
Let’s start cooking up some spicy, crispy beef that everyone will love.
QUICK NAVIGATION
Let’s make some Haitian Tasso!
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS Haitian Tasso Recipe
- Full of spicy and savory flavors
- Crispy outside, tender inside
- Easy to make with a few ingredients
- Great way to try Haitian food
WHAT YOU NEED
For the Beef:
- Beef Chuck – 1 pound, cut into small pieces
- Haitian Epis – 1/4 cup (it’s the marinade)
- Salt – A pinch
To Fry:
- Oil – Enough to deep fry
Making Haitian Epis:
- Garlic – 8 cloves
- Green Onions – 2, chopped
- Bell Pepper – 1, chopped
- Hot Pepper – 1 (use less for less heat)
- Thyme – 2 sprigs
- Parsley – A bunch, chopped
- Lime Juice – From 1 lime
- Cloves – 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper
Mix all epis ingredients until smooth. You can change the amounts to suit your taste.
HOW TO MAKE IT
- Epis: Blend all epis stuff until it’s smooth. Taste and adjust.
- Marinate Beef: Mix beef with epis in a bowl. Make sure all pieces are well-coated. Let it sit for 2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Heat Oil: Get the oil hot in a fryer or a big pot (375°F).
- Fry Beef: Cook the beef pieces in the hot oil but don’t crowd them. They should take about 5-7 minutes to get crispy and brown.
- Eat: Take the beef out of the oil, let it drain on paper towels, and serve it warm.
WAYS TO SERVE
These beef bites are great with:
- rice and beans,
- Akra,
- Fried plantains
RY SOMETHING NEW
You can also try chicken or pork called griot with the same epis for a different flavor.
KEEPING IT FRESH
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stove.
NUTRITION INFO
Tasso is high in protein but fried, so enjoy it in moderation. For a healthier option, try baking it.
Haitian Tasso: Spicy Fried Beef Bites Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup Haitian epis
- Salt, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- For the Haitian Epis:
- 8 cloves garlic
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (adjust to taste), chopped
- 2 sprigs thyme
- A handful of parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon cloves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Epis:
- Combine garlic, scallions, bell pepper, Scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, parsley, lime juice, cloves, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Marinate the Beef:
- In a mixing bowl, coat the beef cubes thoroughly with Haitian epis. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Fry the Tasso:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the beef cubes in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pot, until they are crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the beef with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Notes
This guide makes cooking Haitian Tasso straightforward and fun, offering a tasty introduction to Haitian cuisine that’s perfect for cooks of all ages.
I was born and grew up in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, where my grandmas, mom, and aunts taught me everything about cooking. Now, I live in the US, and I love hiking, reading, and making meals for my family.
