Generally speaking, the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean come alive in the rich culinary heritage of the Dominican Republic. Give these mouth-watering Dominican recipes a whirl the next time you need something truly unique and exciting for dinner. From succulent fried chicken to golden plantains, every dish is a winner. Traditional Dominican cuisine offers an incredible array of flavors, all stemming from its diverse cultural influences.
So if you’re in the mood for something quick and easy, try the crispy tostones or indulge in some delectable yuca with garlic sauce. Or, if you’re up for a culinary challenge, take on the delicious pasteles en hoja recipe. No matter what you choose, these Dominican recipes are guaranteed to impress and leave your taste buds wanting more.
20+ Traditional Dominican Food Recipes
Sancocho Dominicano (Meat and Roots Stew)
Making a delicious and comforting stew is all about combining the right ingredients in one pot. This unique dish is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare, which makes it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy winter night. The hearty stew features a variety of meats and vegetables, all cooked together in a single pot, creating a filling and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
To take it to the next level, you can even add a few extra root vegetables to the mix if you like. Serve with a side of rice and beans for a complete and nutritious meal.
Dominican Fried Chicken (Chicharrones de Pollo)
Zeroing in on the perfect chicken recipe can be a daunting task, but sometimes the simplest methods yield the most impressive results. One such dish that fits this bill is chicharrones de pollo, a culinary gem from Latin American cuisine. This mouth-watering treat features tender and juicy chicken marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, lime juice, and Worcestershire sauce, before being coated in a light batter and fried to a golden crisp.
The end result is a truly indulgent explosion of flavors that will leave even the most discerning palates craving more.
Harina De Maiz (Dominican Cornmeal Porridge)
Very few seasons evoke a sense of comfort food like autumn. Traditionally, porridge is made with cornmeal, milk, and sugar, but its versatility allows it to be tailored to individual tastes. While some people prefer their porridge sweet, I’m firmly in the savory camp. My go-to toppings include shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for added depth. For those who do opt for the sweet version, a sprinkle of fresh nutmeg adds a delightful burst of flavor.
Tostones Recipe
Crafting a tasty tostone dish requires careful selection of ingredients, specifically ripe plantains. The secret to achieving perfection lies in slicing the plantains into thin pieces and frying them until golden brown. Next, smashing them flat yields a crispy and flavorful side dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Traditionally served with a dipping sauce such as sour cream or salsa, tostones are also delicious on their own without any accompaniments.
Pescado Con Coco (Fish in Coconut Sauce)
Varying your fish dishes can be a challenge, especially if you’re looking for something new and exciting to try. However, pescado con coco is a delicious option that combines fresh fish with a rich coconut sauce, creating a flavorful and well-rounded dish. The key to this recipe lies in the coconut sauce, which should be made with high-quality ingredients and cooked until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency.
This versatile dish can be served alongside rice and beans for a satisfying meal or enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing lunch or dinner.
Mangu (Dominican Mashed Plantains)
Zeroing in on traditional Dominican cuisine, we find mangu, a dish that showcases the versatility of plantains. Mangu is essentially mashed green plantains boiled until tender, then mixed with vinegar, onion, and olive oil for added flavor. To season, simply add salt and pepper to taste before serving hot. One of the standout features of mangu is its adaptability – pair it with grilled chicken or pork for a satisfying meal, or enjoy it on its own as a refreshing light snack.
Dominican Arepa Dulce De Maiz | Cornmeal Coconut Cake with Pumpkin
Savoring the flavors of fall just got a whole lot sweeter with this perfect cornmeal coconut cake recipe! Made with wholesome ingredients like cornmeal, coconut milk, and pumpkin puree, this delicious dessert is not only incredibly moist but also packed with natural goodness. Whether you’re indulging in a slice (or two) as an afternoon treat or serving it for breakfast with a warm cup of coffee or tea, this gorgeous recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Serve it with a scoop of creamy ice cream for an extra-special dessert that’s sure to impress, and get ready to fall head over heels for this amazing cornmeal coconut cake!
Rice with Beans (Moro De Habichuelas)
Delving into the world of Latin American cuisine, it’s easy to see why rice and beans have become a staple for many cultures. With its simplicity and depth of flavor, this classic dish is a beloved favorite among many. The Dominican version, in particular, stands out with its rich and aromatic flavors achieved through a flavorful sauce made with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices. Serve it alongside some crusty bread or warm tortillas, and you’re in for a treat!
Locrio – Dominican One Pot Chicken and Rice
Combining classic flavors with modern twists, this chicken and rice dish is a true standout. By marinating the chicken in a zesty blend of lemon (or lime) juice, soy sauce, oregano, adobo, and garlic, you’ll unlock an incredible depth of flavor that’s sure to impress. To add an extra layer of complexity, caramelize a small amount of sugar in the pan before adding the chicken. This will create a sticky and sweet glaze that coats the protein perfectly.
But that’s not all – toss in some piquant green olives and fragrant cilantro for a burst of freshness. To round out this satisfying meal, serve the chicken with a side of beans and avocado slices, providing a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Caribbean Beef Stew (Carne Guisada)
Whether you’re craving something comforting and delicious, or just need a warm and satisfying meal to brighten up your day, this hearty stew recipe is sure to hit the spot. Made with common ingredients you probably already have on hand, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. The beef cooks in a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce, infused with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and a blend of aromatic spices that add depth and complexity to the dish.
When served over a fluffy bed of rice, this stew becomes an incredibly filling and complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion, plus it reheats beautifully so you can enjoy leftovers for days to come.
Chivo Guisado Liniero (Spicy Goat Meat Stew)
Delighting in a flavorful and spicy goat stew, one can almost taste the blend of lime juice, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and tender goat meat. This savory dish is typically served over white rice with a side of crispy tostones (fried plantains) accompanied by creamy avocado slices. For those seeking an extra kick, doubling the amount of cubanelle peppers is a bold move – be cautious, as this stew is not for the faint of heart!
If you’re feeling adventurous and ready to challenge your taste buds, then go ahead and add that extra layer of heat.
Dominican Stewed Chicken
Flavorful stewed chicken is a staple in the Dominican Republic, and it’s not hard to understand why its popularity endures. The harmonious blend of aromatic spices, tenderly cooked chicken, and an assortment of robust vegetables makes for a mouthwatering and fulfilling meal. Moreover, this versatile dish can be effortlessly modified to suit various tastes by incorporating diverse ingredients or adjusting the level of spiciness.
Consequently, this recipe is certain to delight both those who prefer their chicken mildly seasoned and those who crave a more intense flavor profile. If you’re looking for an even heartier meal, consider adding some rice or beans to complement the stew’s rich flavors.
Dominican Fried Red Snapper
Yet another reason why snapper stands out as an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals is its low calorie and fat content. Its mild flavor makes it an ideal canvas for a wide range of herbs and spices. This particular recipe leverages the bold flavors of lime juice, garlic, pepper, salt, oregano, onion powder, and adobo to create a harmonious balance of zesty, citrusy, and spicy notes.
Paired with a fresh and tangy salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, this dish is sure to tantalize the taste buds. To take it to the next level, consider serving it with a chilled glass of Mexican beer or a crisp white wine.
La Bandera Dominicana
Boldly claiming its status as a national dish, La Bandera takes center stage in Dominican cuisine, literally translating to ‘the flag.’ This iconic dish proudly displays the country’s colors – blue, red, and white. Typically made with red beans, white rice, and meat, it offers an excellent balance of complex carbohydrates from the beans and rice, which help sustain energy levels, paired with protein-rich meat that aids in repairing and building muscle tissue.
As you take a spoonful of this quintessential dish, you can feel good about what’s on your plate.
Dominican Chimichurri Burger
Making the most of the summer season, this mouth-watering burger is elevated by the addition of flavorful chimichurri, crunchy cabbage, and a drizzle of garlicky sauce. The bold flavors of the chimichurri perfectly balance the richness of the beef, while the melty cabbage adds an extra layer of texture and flavor to each bite. Paired with a side of crispy fries or a refreshing salad, this burger offers a delightful departure from the usual BBQ options.
Yaroa Recipe
Welcome to the world of Yaroa, a mouth-watering dish from the Dominican Republic that has captured the hearts of many with its rich flavors and versatility. This popular street food is essentially a creative twist on loaded fries, but instead of using potatoes, it’s made with root veggies like yuca or plantains. The star of the show is the savory topping of ground beef, perfectly sautéed with onions, garlic, and tomatoes to create a flavor explosion that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Whether you’re in the mood for a main course or a side dish, Yaroa can be easily customized to suit your taste, making it a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their mealtime routine.
Majarete (Corn Pudding)
Kicking off the meal with a bowl of majarete (corn pudding) can be a truly comforting experience. This traditional dish is made with whole corn cobs, milk, sugar, and spices, blending together to create a rich and creamy flavor that’s hard to resist. The addition of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce takes it to the next level, leaving you wanting more.
And as for those who try majarete for the first time, be warned: once you taste its unique sweetness, you’ll likely find yourself hooked on this tasty treat.
Simple Homemade Dominican Sofrito
Sometimes, finding inspiration in the kitchen can be a challenge, but thankfully, there’s always something new to discover. The simplicity of homemade Dominican sofrito is one such gem that I’ve recently fallen in love with. This aromatic sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs perfectly with rice, beans, or chicken, making it an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire.
Moreover, its ease of preparation and the ability to add a burst of flavor to any dish make it a great way to spice up your cooking.
Chofan
Redefining traditional Latin American cuisine, Chofan is a mouthwatering combination of rice and beans often paired with succulent chicken or pork. Its rich flavor profile is undeniable, making it a standout dish for any meal. One of the greatest advantages of this hearty meal is its versatility – just a few subtle adjustments can transform it from fiery hot to comfortably mild, allowing you to customize it perfectly to your taste.
And if you’re concerned about cooking time, rest assured that Chofan can be ready in under an hour, making it an excellent option for busy days or weeknights when you need a quick yet satisfying dinner. Go to Recipe
Habichuelas Con Dulce
Sometimes we come across dishes that are so incredibly delicious, they become impossible to resist. This traditional Dominican recipe has captured my heart with its unique blend of flavors and textures. Made with batata (sweet potato), coconut milk, and a touch of sweetness from sugar or honey, it’s a culinary masterpiece that will leave you wanting more. The combination of the hearty sweet potato, the creamy coconut milk, and the sweetness is truly irresistible.
I’ve had my fair share of this dish, and I can confidently say that it’s one of my favorites. If you’re a fan of sweet potato casserole, I think you’ll fall in love with this recipe too.
Pasteles En Hoja
Zeroing in on traditional Dominican cuisine, have you ever tried making pastelitos en hoja? If not, you’re missing out on a culinary experience that’s as delicious as it is authentic. These mouthwatering treats are essentially tamales made with tender beef and a flavorful spice and veggie filling, carefully wrapped up in the tender leaves of plantains.
While traditionalists might insist on using only plantain leaves for wrapping, feel free to experiment with husk or banana leaves if that’s what you have available – after all, it’s all about embracing the spirit of creativity in cooking! The result is a truly scrumptious package of flavors that will tantalize even the most discerning palate. You can find the recipe by clicking on the link below.
Spicy Oxtail Stew (Rabo Encendio)
Taking a liking to oxtail is not for the faint of heart. However, once you develop a taste for it, you’ll be hooked for life. This dish is reserved for the true connoisseurs of oxtail cuisine. Boasting an intense flavor profile that’s both spicy and savory, this delectable stew will leave your senses craving more. The oxtail is cooked to perfection using a slow-cooking method until it reaches tender, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
As it cooks, the aromatic blend of adobo, oregano, and crushed red pepper adds depth and signature heat to the dish. Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or pair with crusty bread for a truly satisfying experience that will leave you wanting more.
Quipe/Kipe
Taking inspiration from its traditional Lebanese roots, Quipe or kipe has been given a unique Dominican twist in this recipe. Typically made with bulgur wheat and ground meat, the dish is elevated by incorporating beef mixed with an assortment of vegetables and spices. The process involves slowly browning the mixture in a pan, which is then followed by deep-frying it to achieve a crispy exterior.
Upon completion, you’ll be rewarded with a flavorful and crunchy bite that is sure to delight your guests.
Empanaditas / Pastelitos
Savoring the experience of biting into a warm, flaky empanadita straight out of the pan is truly a delightful one. The combination of a savory filling and delicate dough wrapped in a perfectly cooked package makes these little pies impossible to resist. One might think that making empanaditas would be a daunting task, but surprisingly, they are relatively easy to prepare, even for novice cooks who are just starting out in the kitchen.
25 Popular Dominican Foods (+ Recipe Collection)
Making your taste buds dance with excitement, Dominican cuisine has it all – from mouth-watering dishes like fried chicken to the perfect combination of sweetness and savory flavors in their famous plantains.
Instructions
Jump-starting your meal prep, why not try a mouth-watering Dominican dish? Gather all the necessary ingredients and get ready to cook up something tasty in under 30 minutes!
