Haiti’s Top 10 Drinks for the Summer
As the summer heat rises, there’s nothing better than a refreshing drink with your friends. For this edition on Haitian cuisine, we have chosen to present the 10 must-have Haitian drinks for the summer.
From refreshing tropical blends to surprising flavor combinations, these top 10 Haitian summer beverages will quench your thirst and leave you wanting more.
Get ready for a journey through the flavors of Haiti, with a dash of humor along the way!
1. Fresco
First up is the beloved Fresco, the undisputed champion of coolness. Imagine shaved ice, tropical syrups like passionfruit or coconut, and a hint of rum.
Add a sprinkle of peanuts for an unexpected crunch, and voila! You have a drink that’ll make your taste buds do the limbo and your worries melt away. Just be careful not to get brain freeze while savoring every delicious sip!
2. SourSop Juice
As they say: “ Don’t judge a juice by the bumpy skin of the fruit”, and Soursop is the best example of it! Get ready for a flavor explosion with SourSop Juice. This tropical elixir combines the sweetness of ripe soursop fruit with a tangy twist.
As you sip this zesty potion, your taste buds will do the salsa, and you’ll find yourself wondering how something so refreshing can be so ridiculously good. It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited!
3. Cola Couronne
While other countries have Coca Cola, Cola Couronne is Haiti’s favorite. With its fizzy powers and the ability to quench your thirst in a single gulp, this soda is the perfect sidekick for any adventure.
For an extra kick to your Cola Couronne, don’t hesitate to add a splash of milk and plenty of ice! It’s the perfect way to turn up the pep and keep your drink refreshingly cool. Remember, when it comes to Cola Couronne and milk, ice is a non-negotiable ingredient. So grab your glass, add some milk, load it up with ice, and get ready for a fizzy adventure like no other!
4. Kremas
We can never stop talking about Kremas! When it comes to creamy indulgence, Kremas take the cake (or should we say glass?).
Made with coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and a sprinkle of spices, this Caribbean delight will transport you to a dreamy tropical paradise. Served chilled, it’s like sipping on a creamy cloud, and you’ll find yourself wondering if it’s possible to swim in a pool of Kremas. If only!
5. Bière Prestige
Raise your glass to Bière Prestige, the reigning monarch of Haitian beers. As the famous Prestige beer song goes, “Hold your Prestige High”, this beer deserves to be held in high esteem. This golden elixir is the perfect companion for lazy beach days or lively soirées.
With each sip, you’ll feel like royalty, and you might even catch yourself quoting Shakespeare to your friends. “To beer, or not to beer? That is the question.” Well, we all know the answer!
Fun fact about drinking beer the Haitian way: If a beer bottle doesn’t have the telltale ice fog on it, it’s simply not cold enough to satisfy a Haitian’s thirst. We Haitians have a unique standard when it comes to enjoying a cold brew. We look for that special “chemisette,” a frosty coating that tells us the beer is at the perfect icy temperature.
It’s a badge of honor, a sign that the beverage is ready to be savored and shared amongst friends. So, when it comes to enjoying a refreshing beer in Haiti, remember that the presence of the “chemisette” is the ultimate seal of refreshment approval.
6. Rhum
Haitian Rhum is not just a beverage; it’s a state of mind. It’s the perfect way to unleash the Caribbean Spirit. With its rich flavors and hints of tropical fruits and a rich catalog to choose from, a glass of Rhum will transport you to sandy beaches and swaying palm trees.
The best part? You don’t need a plane ticket to enjoy this Caribbean getaway. Just pour yourself a glass, put on your favorite island tunes, and let the good times roll!
7. Krèm Mayi
For those raised in Haiti, the mention of “Krèm Mayi” instantly brings back fond memories. Who can forget the catchy jingle that accompanied the Krèm Mayi vendor’s arrival?
“Krem mayi chokola frèz orijinal” echoed through the streets, signaling a moment of pure delight. In the scorching heat, nothing could beat the refreshing bliss of these popsicles.
And of course, the corn flavor reigned supreme, capturing our hearts and taste buds with its irresistible sweetness. Krèm Mayi holds a special place in our nostalgic hearts, reminding us of simpler times and the joy of savoring every icy sip.
8. Akasan
While many of the beverages mentioned are enjoyed chilled, Akasan stands out as a unique exception. Traditionally, the corn-based drink is best enjoyed hot, offering a comforting warmth that soothes the soul. However, in recent times, you can find canned versions of Akasan in supermarkets that can be enjoyed cold.
These canned delights possess the magical ability to turn hot days into cool, leisurely moments by the pool. So, whether you prefer your Akasan hot or cold, it remains a versatile and satisfying drink that has the ability to cool you down and uplift your spirits, no matter the temperature outside.
9. Sorrel Juice
Sorrel juice is made from the petals of the sorrel plant, known as Hibiscus sabdariffa. These vibrant red petals are infused in water, creating a tart and tangy base for the juice. To enhance its flavor and complexity, spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and ginger are often added during the brewing process.
The result is a captivating blend of floral notes, citrusy tartness, and a hint of warmth from the spices. The juice is typically sweetened with sugar or other natural sweeteners to balance out the tartness, creating a harmonious and refreshing beverage that is enjoyed throughout the Caribbean and beyond.
10. Rafrechi
If you’re in search of a natural and convenient beverage that requires minimal preparation, look no further than Rafrechi. “Rafrechi” says it all! Just hearing the word instantly gives you a sense of refreshment. It’s the ultimate on-the-go refreshment that keeps you cool throughout the day. Made with natural water as its base, all you need to do is add slices of refreshing cucumber, crisp lettuce, and plenty of ice.
With each sip, Rafrechi brings a burst of hydrating goodness, making it the perfect companion to beat the scorching heat of summer. The best part? When your water runs out, simply refill and enjoy the rejuvenating experience all over again. Rafrechi is the ultimate solution for quenching your thirst and lowering the temperature during those hot summer days.
As the temperature rises and the sun shines, remember to explore the refreshing world of Haitian beverages. Indulge in their flavors, share them with loved ones, and create memorable moments. With these wonderful options, your summer is guaranteed to be refreshing and enjoyable.
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