For over three decades, Elsy Dinvil has been a quiet force in Portland’s culinary landscape, introducing home cooks and chefs to the vibrant flavors and stories of Haiti. Her journey began in Jérémie, where she learned the art of cooking from her mother, an experience that would later inspire her to share these traditions with the world.
Discover the Authentic Taste of Haiti Through Heartfelt Recipes
The Legacy of Sunday Mornings
In the heart of Jérémie, every Sunday morning was a masterclass in culinary tradition for Elsy Dinvil. She watched intently as her mother meticulously selected marbled filets at the bustling market, then transformed them into succulent meatballs using a manual grinder at home. This routine instilled in Elsy a deep appreciation for the nuances of Haitian cooking. The process was more than just preparing food; it was an education in patience, precision, and love. Each step carried the weight of generations, teaching Elsy the importance of selecting ingredients with care and preparing meals with intention.The memory of those Sundays remains vivid for Elsy, who now carries forward her mother’s teachings. The act of grinding meat by hand, though labor-intensive, connected her to a lineage of cooks who valued quality over convenience. It was this dedication that laid the foundation for her future endeavors, guiding her to preserve and share these cherished recipes with others.From Market Stalls to Digital Pages
Elsy’s move to Oregon in the 1990s marked a new chapter in her life. Despite the distance from her homeland, she found ways to keep her cultural heritage alive through food. In 2020, two years after her mother’s passing, Elsy self-published “Cooking With My Mother: Your Guide to Haitian Homecooking.” The e-book not only documented family recipes but also honored her mother’s legacy. Elsy’s mother had never learned to write in Creole, making the book a testament to the power of oral tradition and the strength of familial bonds.The publication of the e-book was a milestone for Elsy. It allowed her to bridge the gap between her past and present, offering readers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Haitian cuisine. Through her writing, Elsy aimed to introduce a wider audience to the flavors and stories that shaped her identity. The book became a way to immortalize her mother’s wisdom and ensure that future generations could appreciate the beauty of Haitian home cooking.Becoming a Culinary Ambassador
Over the years, Elsy has become an integral part of Portland’s food scene. Through her company, Creole Me Up, she shares authentic Haitian dishes at cooking classes and farmers’ markets. Her hands-on approach allows participants to experience the joy of creating traditional meals, fostering a deeper connection to the culture. Elsy’s passion for preserving and promoting Haitian cuisine has earned her a devoted following among both locals and visitors alike.Her collaboration with award-winning chef Gregory Gourdet further cemented her status as a culinary ambassador. Working alongside Gourdet during his pop-ups and the launch of Kann in 2022, Elsy played a crucial role in bringing Haitian flavors to a broader audience. Together, they showcased the versatility and depth of Haitian cuisine, challenging preconceived notions and inviting people to explore new tastes. Elsy’s contributions have helped elevate Haitian food to new heights, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist beautifully.Epis-Spiced Meatballs: A Recipe Rooted in History
One of the standout recipes in Elsy’s repertoire is the epis-spiced meatballs, or boulèts. These flavorful morsels are more than just a dish; they are a gateway to understanding the essence of Haitian cooking. The use of epis, a spice blend central to Haitian cuisine, adds layers of complexity to the meatballs, elevating them from simple comfort food to a celebration of flavor.Preparing boulèts involves techniques passed down through generations. The careful selection of ingredients, the meticulous grinding of meat, and the thoughtful incorporation of spices all contribute to the final product. Each bite tells a story of resilience and creativity, reflecting the resourcefulness of Haitian cooks. For Elsy, making boulèts is a way to honor her roots while sharing the richness of her culture with others.Preserving Tradition in a Modern World
Elsy’s commitment to preserving Haitian culinary traditions in a modern context is evident in everything she does. From her e-book to her cooking classes, she ensures that the authenticity of each recipe remains intact while adapting to contemporary tastes. This balance between tradition and innovation is what sets Elsy apart as a culinary artist.By bridging the gap between the past and present, Elsy creates opportunities for others to connect with Haitian culture. Her work serves as a reminder that food is more than sustenance; it is a means of storytelling, a way to pass down knowledge, and a bridge between communities. Through her efforts, Elsy continues to enrich the culinary landscape, ensuring that the flavors of Haiti find a place on tables around the world.
