Let’s be real for a second: we never fry our diri djon djon in traditional Haitian kitchens. Like… ever. But listen—rules are meant to be bent, flipped, and tossed in a hot skillet with soy sauce and scrambled eggs, right?
So, I’m introducing you to my deliciously rebellious version of a classic: Fried Haitian Black Rice, or as I like to call it with a wink—Diri Djon Djon Fri.
Why I Fried the Black Rice (And You Should Too)
If you’ve ever made diri djon djon (Haitian black rice), you already know the vibe: rich, earthy, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s that dark, mushroom-infused rice that holds a special place at the table—usually served at weddings, holidays, or when you’re trying to impress your guests.
But what happens when you’ve got leftovers and you’re feeling creative? You make magic.
In this remix, I threw in:
- 🥕 1 carrot, finely chopped for a little sweetness and crunch
- 🧅 Onions + green peppers, because flavor base is life
- 🥚 Scrambled eggs, folded in for richness and provide that classic fried rice energy
- 🍗 Thinly sliced chicken breast for that protein punch, cooked until golden and tender
- 🥦 Broccoli florets, for a pop of green and texture
- 🍜 A splash of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil for that umami punch
It’s bold. It’s savory. It’s got Haitian soul and stir-fry flair. And best of all—it’s quick and super satisfying.
What Makes It Work
The base of this dish is still the star—diri djon djon. The black mushroom essence gives the rice a natural depth that pairs beautifully with Asian-style sauces. Think of it like fusion with purpose—comfort food that’s still rooted in tradition but not afraid to switch things up.
It’s a great way to use leftovers, clean out the fridge, or just treat yourself to something new without starting from scratch.
Don’t let the “fusion” label scare you off. This dish is as forgiving as it is flavorful. No djon djon rice left over? Make it fresh. Not a fan of chicken? Swap it with shrimp, tofu, or keep it veggie. Hate broccoli? Leave it out. You’re the chef here!
This is your permission slip to play with your food—with love, of course.
Quick Cooking Tips:
- Cold rice is key! Freshly made rice will clump. Leftover djon djon rice from the day before works perfectly.
- High heat is your friend — it gives the rice that slightly crispy edge that makes fried rice irresistible.
- Taste and tweak — Add more soy sauce or sesame oil to match your vibe. Want heat? Throw in some Scotch bonnet or chili flakes!
Ready to Cook?
If you’ve already got the black rice made, you’re halfway there. Just grab a skillet or wok, crank up the heat, and get ready to stir-fry your way to something truly satisfying.
Whether it’s a weekday lunch or a lazy weekend dinner, Diri Djon Djon Fri is a fun way to bring new life to a traditional dish.
Let your ancestors smile down on your creativity—and don’t forget to serve it hot!
Tag us on Instagram when you try it—we’d love to see your version!
Fried Diri Djon Djon Recipe
Equipment
- Wok or Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked Haitian black rice
- ¼ cup diced onions
- ¼ cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 1 large carrot; diced
- 1 lb. broccoli florets
- 2 large eggs; beaten
- 2 green onions
- 2 tbsp. oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp. sesame oil
- ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce; to mix with the water
- ¼ cup water to mix with the soy sauce
For the chicken
- 1 large chicken breast; cut into thinly sliced strips
- 1 tsp. Delmas Seasoning; for the chicken
- 2 tbsp. low sodium soy sauce; for the chicken
- ¼ tsp. baking soda; for the chicken
- ¼ cup neutral oil; vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil
Instructions
- Marinate the ChickenIn a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken breast with:1 teaspoon Delmas seasoning2 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce¼ teaspoon baking sodaMix well and let it marinate while you prep the veggies—10 to 15 minutes is perfect.
- Prep the Veggies, Rice, and IngredientsIn a small bowl, add ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce, and ¼ cup water. Mix well and set aside. Dice the onions, bell peppers, and carrot.Chop or slice the green onions and set the green parts aside for garnish.Make sure your cooked Haitian black rice is cold (leftover rice works best!), or at least at room temperature.Cook the ChickenHeat ¼ cup of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for 3–5 minutes, or until fully cooked and lightly golden on all sides. Cook 3-4 pieces at a time. Remove the meat from the pan and set aside.In the same pan or wok, stir fry the 1 lb. broccoli florets. Cook until vibrant green, crisp, and slightly soft.
- Scramble the EggsIn the same pan, reduce the heat slightly if needed. Add a little bit more oil, if needed, about 1 tablespoon. Add the beaten eggs and scramble quickly.Stir-Fry the VeggiesOnce cooked, push them to the side of the pan or remove and set aside.Add a bit more oil if needed, about 4 tablespoons, then toss in:¼ cup diced onions¼ cup diced bell pepper1 diced carrotThe white part of the green onionsStir-fry for about 3–4 minutes until the veggies are just tender but still crisp.
- Bring It All TogetherAdd the cooked black rice to the pan and break up any clumps.Pour in:Soy sauce mixture2 tablespoon oyster sauce1 tablespoon sesame oilToss everything together over medium-high heat until the rice is heated through and evenly coated—about 3–5 minutes.Return the cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and scrambled eggs to the skillet or wok. Mix well to combine. Top with sliced green onions for a fresh finish.Finish & ServeServe hot and enjoy your delicious, fusion-style Fried Diri Djon Djon!
Video
Notes
Quick Cooking Tips:
- Cold rice is key! Freshly made rice will clump. Leftover djon djon rice from the day before works perfectly.
- High heat is your friend — it gives the rice that slightly crispy edge that makes fried rice irresistible.
- Taste and tweak — Add more soy sauce or sesame oil to match your vibe. Want heat? Throw in some Scotch bonnet or chili flakes!
Angela says
This recipe turned out amazing! It was easy to prepare and the entire family loved it. I can’t wait to make it again!!
Mirlene says
Thank you, Angela. Glad it worked out for you
amy liu dong says
Love the vibrant color of this dish, and it looks flavorful. This Haitian dish is so tempting!
Mirlene says
Thank you so much
Catalina says
I’ve always loved Haitian cuisine, and this fried version of Diri Djon Djon was new to me—absolutely delicious!
Mirlene says
Thank you very much, Catalina
Mahy says
Oh wow – now that is the rice that has flavor in it. I mean, it’s the most flavorful dish I have eaten to date. Thank you for the experience!
Mirlene says
Thank you, Mahy
Paula says
This Hatian fried rice is a new family favorite! I loved the new flavors, since I’m used to Asian fried rice. This was on a whole other level of delicious! Absolutely incredible.
Janie says
Love a good dish that has all the fixins in one and filling at the same time. Seasonings were on point and made this so flavorful.
Maria says
This recipe is proof that frying makes anything better! It looks so good.
Beth says
My goodness, Haitian food is so good! I’ve tried so many of your recipes, and they’re all fantastic. I can’t wait to try this one, too.
Mirlene says
Thanks, Beth. Hope you like it.