From fried chicken to golden plantains, they’re all winners. Traditional Dominican foods are flavorful, super diverse, and offer something for everyone. So if you want something quick and easy, try the yummy tostones. Or, if you’re up for a challenge, take the pasteles en hoja for a spin. No matter what you choose, these Dominican recipes are guaranteed to impress.
20+ Traditional Dominican Food Recipes
1. Sancocho Dominicano (Meat and Roots Stew)
The best thing about this unique dish is that it’s packed with flavor yet easy to make. This hearty stew features a variety of meats and vegetables, all cooked in a single pot. The result is a filling and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a winter night. 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 meal.
2. Dominican Fried Chicken (Chicharrones de Pollo)
Chicken is a staple in many cultures, and there are endless ways to prepare it. However, one of the tastiest (and perhaps lesser known) methods is chicharrones de pollo. This dish features chicken marinated in a mix of garlic, lime juice, and Worcestershire sauce. It’s then coated in batter and fried until crispy. The result is a mouthwatering explosion of flavor that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
3. Harina De Maiz (Dominican Cornmeal Porridge)
Autumn is the perfect time to cozy up with a bowl of hot porridge. Traditionally made with cornmeal, milk, and sugar, you can serve this sweet, as this recipe suggests, or savory, depending on your preference. Mine is definitely savory! I like it with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. But if you’re going for the sweet version, just grate some fresh nutmeg on top for a burst of flavor.
4. Tostones Recipe
Made with just a few simple ingredients, tostones are a healthy alternative to traditional fried foods. The key to making the perfect tostone is to select ripe plantains. Slice them into thin pieces, fry them until golden brown, and then smash them flat. The result is a crispy and flavorful side dish that will please everyone at the table. Typically served with a dipping sauce, such as sour cream or salsa, they’re also delicious on their own.
5. Pescado Con Coco (Fish in Coconut Sauce)
If you’re on the hunt for a new recipe to spice up your fish routine, look no further than pescado con coco. This flavorful dish pairs fresh fish with a creamy coconut sauce and can be easily adapted to suit your taste. The coconut sauce gives this dish its signature flavor, so be sure to use fresh ingredients and cook it until it’s nice and thick. Serve pescado con coco with rice and beans for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a light lunch or dinner.
6. Mangu (Dominican Mashed Plantains)
Mangu is a traditional Dominican dish made from mashed green plantains. It’s commonly served for breakfast but can also be enjoyed as a side dish or main course. The plantains are boiled until they are soft, then mashed with vinegar, onion, and olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then serve hot. One of the best things about mangu is that it’s so versatile. So, top it with grilled chicken or pork for a hearty meal, or enjoy it on its own as a light and healthy snack.
7. Dominican Arepa Dulce De Maiz | Cornmeal Coconut Cake with Pumpkin
This is the perfect cornmeal coconut cake to get you in the fall spirit! Made with cornmeal, coconut milk, and pumpkin puree, this cake is as flavorful as it is moist. And since it’s made with all-natural ingredients, you can feel good about indulging in a slice (or two). Serve this cake for breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea, or relish it as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream. No matter how you enjoy it, this gorgeous recipe is sure to be a hit!
8. Fried Sweet Plantain Slices (Platanos Maduros Fritos)
Sweet plantain slices are a popular dish in many Latin American countries and are often served as a side dish or snack. And unlike many fried foods, fried plantains are a delicious and nutritious treat. The key is choosing the right ones. If they’re too green, they’ll be too starchy and will not fry properly.
9. Rice with Beans (Moro De Habichuelas)
Rice and beans can be made in myriad ways, and each is more delicious than the last. And this classic dish is beloved by many for its simple yet profound flavors. Cooked in a flavorful sauce with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices, the Dominican version really is something special. Serve this dish with a side of bread or tortillas, and dig in!
10. Locrio – Dominican One Pot Chicken and Rice
Chicken and rice comes in all shapes, sizes, and flavors. But this might be my favorite. You’ll marinate and cook the chicken in a blend of lemon (or lime) juice, soy sauce, oregano, adobo, and garlic. Oh, you’ll also caramelize a little sugar in the pan. So, when you add that yummy chicken, it gets all sticky and sweet. For an extra touch of flavor, mix in some green olives and cilantro, then serve it with a side of beans and avocado slices.
11. Caribbean Beef Stew (Carne Guisada)
Are you looking for a delicious and hearty meal that will warm you from the inside out? Then, I have the perfect stew recipe for you! It’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and fridge. The beef is cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with onions, bell peppers, and spices. Served over rice, it makes for a complete and satisfying meal. Plus, leftovers reheat well, so you can enjoy it for days to come.
12. Chivo Guisado Liniero (Spicy Goat Meat Stew)
Goat meat marinated in lime juice, then simmered in a spice-infused broth with onions, garlic, and tomatoes until tender…pretty drool-worthy, amirite? This spicy goat stew is most often served over white rice with a side of avocado and tostones (fried plantains). And you really can’t go wrong with that! If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add extra spice by doubling the cubanelle peppers? Just be warned – this dish is not for the faint of heart!
13. Dominican Stewed Chicken
Stewed chicken is a classic dish in the Dominican Republic, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of flavorful spices, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables makes for a delicious and satisfying meal. Plus, the stew can be easily adapted to accommodate different flavors and ingredients. So, this recipe is sure to please whether you like your chicken spicy or mild. And if you’re looking for a heartier dish, add some rice or beans to the mix.
14. Dominican Fried Red Snapper
Snapper is a white fish that’s low in calories and fat, making it an excellent choice for those watching their weight. And if you’ve ever cooked with white fish before, you’ll know it’s pretty mild. So, it’s practically begging for herbs and spices! This version calls for lime juice, garlic, pepper, salt, oregano, onion powder, and adobo. It’s zippy, citrusy, and wonderfully spicy. Serve it with a flavorful salsa of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. And, of course, a glass of cold beer or white wine always makes everything better.
15. La Bandera Dominicana
The Dominican Republic’s national dish is La Bandera, which means “the flag.” It’s representative of the country’s colors (blue, red, and white), and it is traditionally made with red beans, white rice, and meat. The beans and rice provide complex carbohydrates to keep you full, while the meat provides protein to help repair and build muscle tissue. So you can feel good about every spoonful of this one.
16. Dominican Chimichurri Burger
Embellished with flavorful chimichurri, crunchy cabbage, and garlicky sauce, this juicy burger is the perfect summer meal. The bold flavors of the chimichurri complement the richness of the beef, while the melty cabbage adds an extra element of texture and flavor. Served with a side of fries or a fresh salad, this burger is such a nice change from the usual BBQ fare.
17. Yaroa Recipe
Yaroa is a delicious and easy-to-make dish from the Dominican Republic that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. This popular street food is essentially a version of loaded fries, only they’re often made with root veggies (yuca or plantains) instead of potatoes. There’s a tasty topping of ground beef with sautéed onions, garlic, and tomatoes. The resulting dish is hearty and filling and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
18. Majarete (Corn Pudding)
Few things are as comforting as a warm bowl of majarete (corn pudding). Made with whole corn cobs, milk, sugar, and spices, it has a creamy, slightly sweet flavor that’s simply irresistible. Try it with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce, and you’ll go weak in the knees. Of course, no matter how you enjoy it, one thing is for sure: once you try majarete, you’ll be hooked!
19. Simple Homemade Dominican Sofrito
If you’re like me, you’re always looking for new and exciting recipes to try. And this simple homemade Dominican sofrito certainly fits the bill. This flavorful sauce is perfect for rice, beans, or chicken, and it’s easy to make. Plus, it’s a great way to add some spice to your cooking.
20. Chofan
Chofan is a delicious rice and bean meal usually served with chicken or pork. And it is absolutely packed with flavor. The best part about chofan is that it can be tailored to your taste. A few minor tweaks, and it’ll be as spicy or mild as you like. And if you’re worried about time, don’t be – chofan can be on the table in under an hour.
21. Habichuelas Con Dulce
Have you ever had a dish so good, you just can’t stop eating it? That’s how I feel about this fantastic meal. This traditional Dominican recipe is made with batata (sweet potato), coconut milk, and a sweetener like sugar or honey. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible. The batata provides a hearty base, the coconut milk adds creaminess, and the sweetness takes it over the top. I could eat this dish every day and never get tired of it. And if you’re a fan of sweet potato casserole, I think you’ll love it too.
22. Pasteles En Hoja
Have you ever tried making pasteles en hoja? If not, you’re missing out on a delicious treat! These Dominican-style tamales are made with beef and a yummy spice and veggie filling, all wrapped up in a plantain leaf. You can also use husk or banana leaves for wrapping if that’s all you can find. The result is a mouthwatering package of flavor that will please any palate.
23. Spicy Oxtail Stew (Rabo Encendio)
Oxtail is a bit of an acquired taste. But once you acquire that taste, there’s no going back. And this dish is for the true oxtail aficionado. Spicy, savory, and packed with flavor, this mouthwatering stew will leave your tastebuds tingling. The oxtail is slow-cooked until it is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Meanwhile, the spice blend of adobo, oregano, and crushed red pepper gives the dish its signature heat. Serve over rice or with some crusty bread, and you’ll be more than happy.
24. Quipe/Kipe
Quipe, or kipe, is a traditional Lebanese dish made from bulgur wheat and ground meat. But this recipe gives it a stunning Dominican twist. The beef is mixed with veggies and spices and is then slowly browned in a pan. Once done, the next step is to deep fry it. The final result is a fragrant, crunchy, and ever-so-yummy bite that will impress all your guests.
25. Empanaditas / Pastelitos
There’s nothing quite like a warm, flaky empanadita straight out of the pan. Stuffed with a savory filling and wrapped in a delicate dough, these little pies are impossible to resist. And while they may look complicated to make, empanaditas are actually relatively easy – even for beginner cooks. Click on a star to rate it!
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