6 Most Popular Food In The Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic was formerly a Spanish colony, so it makes sense that good food Dominican Republic-style has Spanish influence. This cuisine has also been influenced by indigenous Taino, African and Middle-Eastern traits. Dominican food has similarities to other Latin American countries, although names of the dishes are different. One thing is for sure, this is seriously tasty food and it packs loads of flavour!

# Chivo guisado

Chivo guisado is a tasty Dominican goat stew. Typical ingredients used to prepare this meal are onions, bitter or sour oranges, garlic, tomatoes, wild oregano, scotch bonnet peppers for a spicy kick and of course goat meat.

The stew is cooked on low heat for many hours until the meat is tender and falling apart. Served on top of cracked corn pilaf (chenchén), this is delicious home-cooked food Dominican Republic style. Chenchén is like rice in Dominican cuisine and is served with many stews and meaty dishes.

# Lechon Asado

Roasted suckling pig that has first been marinated in some great ingredients. This is a very popular food in the Dominican Republic that is packed with flavour! The marinade is a blend of orange juice, fresh garlic, olives, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. The pork is roasted until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

A whole suckling pig or large cuts of pork can be used to make Lechon Asado, and it’s a dish that can feed a large crowd at once. This dish is equally as popular in Cuba.

# Sancocho

Sancocho is a traditional broth in several Latin American cuisines. A hearty soup of potatoes, meats, corn, and plantain, this dish is much-loved food in the Dominican Republic.

Sancocho de Siete Carnes (seven meats) is the most complex and sophisticated Dominican sancocho. Don’t leave without trying it at least once. Here’s the best recipe for Sancocho de Siete Carnes.

# Yaroa

Let’s talk about traditional food Dominican Republic. Yaroa is a traditional casserole dish that is prepared in many different variations across the country. This dish is often made with pork, beef, chicken, sweet mashed plantains or fries, cheese and condiments such as ketchup or mayonnaise to put on top. This is the best street food Dominican Republic snack ever!

The mashed sweet plantain or fries are topped with shredded meat and covered with cheese and different sauces. Usually found from street food vendors and food trucks, it’s certainly not healthy, but go for it anyway!

# Mangu

Another simple food in the Dominican Republic that makes great use of plantain! Mangu is a plantain mash, usually eaten as a breakfast food in the Dominican Republic. This meal is a staple in the country and it’s usually served with eggs, fried thick salami and fried cheese.

# Pica Pollo

If you don’t know what Pica pollo is before beginning your search for delicious food in the Dominican Republic, you’ll certainly discover it when you’re there! Pica Pollo is Dominican fried chicken, and it’s sooo good! It’s usually served with a side of fried plantains. Talking from experience, order a cold beer or soda with your pica pollo to have the best food experience.

The secret of this tasty deep-fried bird is in the marinating stage. Lots of fresh lemon/lime in there with parsley, onion and garlic. And then when it comes to the frying stage, the chicken pieces are rolled into flour combined with secret herbs and spices before hitting the fryer. Bliss!