Looking to add a little excitement to your cooking routine? Look no further than the rich and vibrant cuisine of the Dominican Republic! With its African, Spanish, and indigenous influences, Dominican food is a fusion of flavors that will delight your taste buds. And the best part? Many of these recipes are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 flavorful and easy-to-make Dominican recipes that are perfect for anyone looking to explore new culinary horizons. From hearty stews and savory meats to sweet treats and refreshing drinks, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
So grab your apron, put on some Dominican music, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport you straight to the Caribbean!
Dominican Sancocho (Hearty Meat and Vegetable Stew)
Experience the rich flavors of the Dominican Republic with this hearty meat and vegetable stew, known as Sancocho. This traditional dish is a staple at family gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, beef or pork, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the potatoes, sweet potato, carrots, and green beans. Pour in the beef broth.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Quick Dominican Tostones (Fried Green Plantains)
A classic Latin American snack, tостones are crispy fried green plantain slices that pair perfectly with a variety of dishes. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick cooking time, you can enjoy this delicious treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green plantains
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. When the oil is hot, add 2-3 plantain slices to the pan (do not overcrowd).
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the plantains are golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the tостones from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Sprinkle with salt to taste, then serve warm.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Easy Dominican Mangú (Mashed Plantains)
A classic Caribbean side dish that’s simple to make and pairs perfectly with your favorite meats or as a snack on its own.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe plantains, peeled
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cumin for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the plantain chunks and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until they’re tender and caramelized.
3. Remove the plantains from the skillet and let them cool slightly.
4. Mash the plantains with a fork or potato masher until they reach your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and any additional flavorings you like (optional).
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Dominican Habichuelas Guisadas (Stewed Beans)
A staple dish in many Dominican households, Habichuelas Guisadas is a flavorful and comforting stew made with dried beans, onions, garlic, and spices. This recipe is an easy-to-make and delicious interpretation of this traditional dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked and drained beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Dominican Chicharrón de Pollo (Crispy Fried Chicken)
Experience the bold flavors of the Dominican Republic with this crispy fried chicken recipe, a staple at any gathering. Chicharrón de pollo is a popular dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy breading, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vinegar-based hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, garlic, paprika, and cumin.
2. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per batch.
4. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your choice of toppings (e.g., onions, cilantro, lime wedges).
5. For an extra kick, drizzle with vinegar-based hot sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Dominican Arroz con Leche (Rice Pudding)
This classic Dominican dessert is a staple at many family gatherings and celebrations. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a creamy and sweet rice pudding that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Raisins or nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Garnish with raisins or nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Dominican Moro de Guandules (Rice with Pigeon Peas)
A classic Caribbean dish, Moro de Guandules is a flavorful rice dish that combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the rich taste of pigeon peas and aromatics. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup dried pigeon peas (guandules)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro, chopped scallions, or grated cheddar for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the dried pigeon peas to the pot and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add to the pot with the pea mixture. Stir until combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with optional herbs and cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dominican Ensalada Verde (Simple Green Salad)
This refreshing salad is a staple in Dominican cuisine, perfect for hot days or as a light accompaniment to your favorite meals. With its simplicity and flavor, it’s no wonder this ensalada verde has become a beloved dish throughout the Caribbean.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, lettuce, spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
2. Sprinkle crumbled cheese over the top.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze lime juice over the salad.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Quick Dominican Yaniqueques (Crispy Fried Dough)
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make crispy fried dough, also known as yaniqueques, just like they do in the Dominican Republic. These sweet treats are perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the vegetable oil, stirring with a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the sugar and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
6. Roll out the dough into thin sheets, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles).
8. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
9. Fry the yaniqueques for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
10. Drain excess oil with paper towels.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch (depending on the size of your yaniqueques)
Easy Dominican Pollo Guisado (Braised Chicken)
Experience the rich flavors of the Dominican Republic with this easy and delicious braised chicken recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces (2 legs, 2 thighs, 2 wings, 2 breasts)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add broth, wine (if using), cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the pot, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with cilantro (optional) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dominican Batida de Lechosa (Papaya Smoothie)
A refreshing and healthy twist on traditional papaya, this Dominican Batida de Lechosa combines the sweetness of papaya with the creaminess of milk and a hint of spice. Perfect for a warm day or as a post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe papayas, peeled and seeded
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the papaya, milk, honey, and cinnamon.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level to your liking.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
5. Blend again until the ice is fully incorporated.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Simple Dominican Pastelitos (Savory Meat Turnovers)
A classic Dominican dish, pastelitos are savory meat turnovers that are perfect for snacks or meals. These flaky pastry pockets are filled with a delicious mixture of ground beef and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Filling:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add shortening and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Gradually add warm water and knead for 5-7 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
6. Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
8. Seal edges by pressing with a fork.
9. Fry pastelitos in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Dominican Arepitas de Maíz (Cornmeal Fritters)
Arepas are a staple snack in the Dominican Republic, and these quick cornmeal fritters are a delicious twist on the classic recipe. Perfect for a quick afternoon pick-me-up or as a side dish to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Optional: chopped cilantro or grated cheese for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the lukewarm water, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using wet hands, shape small balls of dough into thin patties.
5. Fry the arepitas for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Dominican Salami Guisado (Braised Salami)
This hearty dish is a staple in Dominican cuisine, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights at home. Slow-cooked salami in a rich tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices and herbs will fill your kitchen with delicious aromas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb salami, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add salami slices; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to low and let cook for 1 1/2 hours or overnight.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Dominican Pan de Agua (Crusty Water Bread)
Pan de Agua is a classic Dominican bread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes. This recipe yields a deliciously crusty loaf with a delicate texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup lukewarm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water while stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and crusty.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Simple Dominican Ensalada de Aguacate (Avocado Salad)
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Dominican Republic with this refreshing and creamy avocado salad, perfect for a quick snack or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a large bowl, combine the avocado halves, chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro.
3. Squeeze the freshly squeezed lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in 5 minutes or less.
Quick Dominican Majarete (Coconut Corn Pudding)
Majarete is a classic Dominican dessert that’s creamy, sweet, and comforting. This quick recipe simplifies the traditional method to get you delicious coconut corn pudding in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine corn kernels and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Stir in heavy cream, grated coconut, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Easy Dominican Chivo Guisado (Braised Goat Stew)
Easy Dominican Chivo Guisado (Braised Goat Stew)
Get ready to experience the rich flavors of the Dominican Republic with this hearty and comforting goat stew.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound goat meat, cut into large chunks
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the goat meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onions to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the tomato puree, beef broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
6. Return the goat meat to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the goat is tender.
8. If using potatoes, add them to the pot during the last hour of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Discover the flavorful and easy-to-make world of Dominican cuisine with these 18 beginner-friendly recipes! From hearty stews to crispy fried treats, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Sancocho, a meat and vegetable stew that’s sure to become a family favorite, or indulge in sweet treats like Arroz con Leche, a creamy rice pudding. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, these recipes are perfect for anyone new to Dominican cooking. Get started today and taste the island’s vibrant flavors!
