Every country has national dishes, foods that are unique to that country and that culture. All-inclusive Dominican Republic villas in particular take no exception, and the cuisine which is most representative of this lovely Caribbean island nation includes these delicious must-try dishes. Here’s a list of the tastiest typical foods the Dominican Republic has to offer:
La Comida – Rice, red beans and meat. It is a staple in island cooking, quite simple to prepare and delicious to eat.
Sancocho – a combination of pork, beef and chicken along with a variety of local vegetables such as plantains and yucca.
Kipe – small, deep-fried ball of seasoned beef, served warm alone or as part of an appetizer plate.
Mangu- mashed plantains serve as the base of the dish, topped with sautéed onions, sliced salami and either fried or scrambled eggs.
Pollo Guisado – a stew simmering with chicken, peppers, carrots, onions, potatoes, olives and tomatoes.
La Comida
This is one of the most traditional dishes in the country and is a typical weekday meal. This dish goes by many names, including “Arroz, Habichuelas y Carne” which is rice, red beans and meat. It is a staple in island cooking, quite simple to prepare and delicious to eat. Add rice and beans to whatever meat is available, perhaps chicken or pork, and fill a plate. This dish is often referred to as “La Bandera,” which means “the flag,” indicative of its popularity as a national dish.
Sancocho
Sancocho is a delectable dish typically served on more special occasions or for family gatherings. It is a combination of pork, beef and chicken along with a variety of local vegetables such as plantains and yucca. This thickened soup is the star of every family gathering, so it is generally made in large quantities to ensure that everyone gets plenty. Sancocho is a flavorful dish full of local foods; though it takes some time and effort to prepare, it is certain to be a hit for any occasion.
Kipe
Every country has its own version of snack foods or appetizers, and Kipe fits that description for the Dominican Republic. These tasty treats were brought to the islands by Middle Eastern settlers and soon became a traditional dish. A Kipe is a small, deep-fried ball of seasoned beef, served warm alone or as part of an appetizer plate. They are flavorful and satisfying, and one will never be enough.
Mangu
A breakfast specialty in the Dominican Republic is mangu, a wonderful island treat. Mashed plantains serve as the base of the dish, topped with sautéed onions, sliced salami and either fried or scrambled eggs. Eating a plate of Mangu is a delectable way to begin any day.
Pollo Guisado
Translated “Chicken Stew,” this is a more spicy traditional island dish. Simmering with the chicken are peppers, carrots, onions, potatoes, olives and tomatoes. Pollo Guisado is served with red beans and rice, and the savory sauce is typically served over the rice.
Any experience with Dominican food, and maybe a glass of mamajuana is certain to be delicious, and the fantastic flavors and traditions of island cooking are on full display in these dishes from the island.
