Boil the giraumon squash until soft and puree it into the broth so it becomes the body of the soup itself, not a garnish; that silky pumpkin base is what makes soup joumou more than a vegetable-beef soup.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep40 min
Cook2 hr
Makes8 servings
CuisineHaitian
Cost$$$
Dairy-free
Contains gluten
Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free pasta or noodle (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for8servings
Giraumon squash
West Indian pumpkin pureed to form the soup's velvety base.
2 lb
Local / market
Beef
Chunks of beef marinated in epis flavor the broth.
Can you make Haitian Soup Joumou in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Haitian Soup Joumou? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Haitian Soup Joumou ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Haitian Soup Joumou gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in a gluten-free pasta or noodle (check the other labels too).
Is Haitian Soup Joumou vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.