Join us in the vibrant streets of Haiti for the annual Pen Patat Festival, a celebration deeply rooted in the country's rich cultural heritage and spirit of resilience. Pen Patat, meaning 'sweet potato' in Haitian Creole, symbolizes the humble origins and perseverance of the Haitian people.

Experience a kaleidoscope of music, dance, and traditional cuisine as communities come together to honor their shared history and traditions. From lively parades featuring colorful costumes to rhythmic drum performances that echo through the streets, immerse yourself in the infectious energy of Haitian culture.

Sample delicious dishes crafted from the beloved sweet potato, showcasing the ingenuity and culinary creativity of Haitian chefs. Engage with local artisans as they showcase their craftsmanship, from intricate beadwork to vibrant paintings, offering a glimpse into Haiti's rich artistic legacy.

Above all, the Pen Patat Festival serves as a reminder of Haiti's resilience in the face of adversity, inspiring hope and unity among its people. Come join the festivities and be a part of this unforgettable celebration of Haitian culture and community.

Ingredients:

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set aside.

2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated sweet potatoes, coconut milk, evaporated milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and melted butter. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

3- Stir in the beaten eggs until fully combined. If using, fold in the raisins and shredded coconut at this stage for added flavor and texture.

4- Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the pudding is set and the top is golden brown.

6- Once baked, remove the Pen Patat from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

7- Serve the Pen Patat warm or at room temperature, cut into squares or scoops, as desired.

8- Enjoy this traditional Haitian dessert on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

9- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat before serving if desired.

10- Share and enjoy this delicious taste of Haiti with family and friends!

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values for the ingredients used in the Pen Patat recipe:

Sweet potatoes (3 large):

• Calories: 330 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 77 g
• Fiber: 12 g
• Sugars: 18 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 1 g

benefits: Rich in fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin B6), and minerals (such as potassium and manganese). They promote gut health, support immune function, and aid in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Coconut milk (1 cup):

• Calories: 445 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugars: 2 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 48 g

benefits: Contains healthy fats known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide quick energy. It's also a good source of iron and magnesium, and it may promote heart health and aid in digestion.

Evaporated milk (1 cup):

• Calories: 340 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Sugars: 25 g
• Protein: 17 g
• Fat: 19 g

benefits: Provides protein, calcium, and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health. It also contains B vitamins like B12, which supports nerve function and energy metabolism.

Granulated sugar (1 cup):

• Calories: 774 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 200 g
• Sugars: 200 g

benefits:A source of quick energy, but should be consumed in moderation as excessive intake can lead to health issues such as obesity and diabetes.

Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 12 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0.6 g
• Sugars: 0.6 g

benefits:Adds flavor without additional calories or sugar. Some studies suggest that vanilla may have antioxidant properties and could help reduce anxiety.

Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon):

• Calories: 3 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Fiber: 1 g

benefits:Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon):

• Calories: 3 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0.5 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g

benefits:Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may aid in digestion and help alleviate pain.

Salt (1/4 teaspoon):

• Calories: 0 kcal
• Sodium: 590 mg

benefits:Essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions in the body. However, excessive salt intake can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues.

Butter (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 204 kcal
• Fat: 23 g

benefits:A source of saturated fats and fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, E, and K. Consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Eggs (3 large):

• Calories: 215 kcal
• Protein: 18 g
• Fat: 15 g

benefits:A complete protein source, providing essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth and repair. They also contain vitamins (such as vitamin B12 and vitamin D) and minerals (such as iron and zinc).

Raisins (1/2 cup, optional):

• Calories: 217 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 57 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugars: 29 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 0.5 g

benefits:Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and various vitamins and minerals like potassium and iron. They may promote digestive health, support heart health, and provide energy.

Shredded coconut (1/4 cup, optional):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugars: 2 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 12 g

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brand, ripeness, and specific ingredients used.