What Is Pikliz? Haiti's Spicy Pickled Slaw

Pikliz is a spicy Haitian pickled slaw traditionally made with cabbage, carrots, onions, peppers and vinegar. Known for its bright acidity, heat and crunch, pikliz is a staple of Haitian cuisine, often served alongside fried and grilled foods to bring balance and flavor to the plate.

Our Food with Roots pikliz recipe was passed down to us through our Haitian family in Florida. It came after years of learning, gaining trust and developing our recipe to meet Mama Clervil's standards. That connection is important to us because Food with Roots is about more than making delicious food. It's about sharing the people, traditions and stories behind it.

What is pikliz made from?

Traditional Haitian pikliz combines shredded cabbage, carrots, onions and hot peppers in a bright, vinegary brine. Scotch bonnet peppers provide its signature heat, while the pickled vegetables give it crunch and acidity.

Pikliz also reflects a longstanding method of preserving vegetables while creating a condiment that brings freshness and contrast to rich foods.

What do you eat with pikliz?

In Haitian cuisine, pikliz is commonly served alongside dishes such as fried or grilled meats and other savory foods. But its combination of heat, acidity and crunch makes it incredibly versatile.

Try pikliz with fried chicken, grilled meats, rice and beans, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, seafood or anywhere a dish could use something bright, spicy and acidic. We especially love the way pikliz cuts through rich and fried foods.

Why Food with Roots makes pikliz

We brought our pikliz to market because we want to help diversify grocery shelves with foods that carry cultural identity, integrity and a story.

For some people, a jar of Food with Roots Pikliz may taste familiar. For others, it may be their first introduction to Haitian food culture. Either way, we hope it encourages you to learn about the food, share it and, most importantly, enjoy it.

Ready to try it? Shop Food with Roots Pikliz