Dominican food is an explosion of flavor, a direct result of the island’s unique history and the mix of cultures that call it home.
The cuisine is a blend of Taíno, Spanish, and African traditions. One of the things that makes Dominican food so special is the use of sazón, a mix of herbs and spices that are used to add savory flavors to almost any dish.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the must-try dishes and culinary experiences the Dominican Republic has to offer. From the staple dishes you’ll find on every corner to some of the lesser-known gems, we’ll cover it all. We will also touch on what vegetarian options are available.
Santo Domingo was named a Culinary Capital of the Caribbean in both 2018 and 2019. This recognition highlights how important food is to the Dominican identity.
Staple Dishes: The Foundation of Dominican Cuisine
Dominican cuisine is a vibrant blend of flavors and traditions, and certain dishes form the very heart of the country’s food culture. Here are a few of the must-try staples you’ll encounter during your visit.
La Bandera Dominicana (The Dominican Flag)
Considered the national dish, La Bandera Dominicana proudly represents the colors of the Dominican flag. This hearty and satisfying meal typically consists of fluffy rice, savory beans, and tender meat, often stewed to perfection. Eaten daily by many Dominicans, La Bandera is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of national identity.
Mangú
Start your day the Dominican way with Mangú, a traditional breakfast dish made from creamy mashed plantains. Often served with los tres golpes (the three hits) – fried eggs, salty cheese, and flavorful fried salami – Mangú is simple, delicious, and a cornerstone of Dominican mornings.
Dominican Rice
Rice is the undisputed king of Dominican cuisine. Consumed in countless forms and accompanying nearly every meal, rice is a fundamental part of the Dominican culinary landscape. Whether it’s fluffy white rice, flavorful arroz con pollo (rice with chicken), or creamy arroz con leche (rice pudding), you’re sure to encounter this versatile grain throughout your culinary journey.
Hearty and Flavorful: Soups, Stews, and Meats
If you’re looking for something filling and flavorful, Dominican cuisine boasts a range of soups, stews, and meat dishes that are sure to satisfy.
Sancocho
Often called the national dish (along with La Bandera), sancocho is a hearty stew that’s often prepared for celebrations and special occasions. Recipes vary, but some versions, known as “sancocho de siete carnes,” contain seven different kinds of meat.
Chivo Guisado (Stewed Goat)
Especially popular in the Dominican Republic’s border regions with Haiti, chivo guisado features goat meat slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce. If you want to sample this dish, I’ve heard good things about the version they serve at Meson D’Bari.
Roasted Pork
You’ll find roasted pork sold as a street food in many parts of the Dominican Republic. It’s often seasoned with local herbs and spices, giving it a distinctive and delicious flavor.
From the Sea: Seafood Delights
Given that the Dominican Republic is an island nation, it should come as no surprise that the local cuisine makes liberal use of seafood. Here are a couple of must-try dishes for seafood lovers:
Pescado Frito (Fried Fish)
Especially in coastal areas, you’ll find pescado frito, a whole fish, fried until it’s deliciously crispy and seasoned simply. It’s a true taste of the Dominican coast.
Pescado con Coco (Fish with Coconut Sauce)
Another excellent option is pescado con coco, which features fish cooked in a creamy coconut sauce. It’s a great example of how coconut has been integrated into Dominican cuisine.
If you’re looking for a great place to try pescado con coco, many people recommend Jalao restaurant.
Snacks and Street Food: A Taste of Everyday Life
When you’re on the go in the DR, there are plenty of quick and tasty snacks and street food options to keep you fueled up and happy.
Empanadas and Pastelitos
Empanadas are pastries filled with savory ingredients like meat and cheese. Pastelitos are basically mini-empanadas, perfect for a quick bite.
Quipe
Quipe is a savory snack similar to kibbeh, which you find in Middle Eastern countries. It’s a testament to the diverse cultural influences in the DR, as it was introduced by immigrants long ago and has become a popular street food.
Yaniqueques
Yaniqueques are a quintessential Dominican street food: fried dough that’s often eaten plain or with a topping. You’ll find vendors selling them everywhere!
Sweet Endings: Dominican Desserts
No exploration of Dominican cuisine is complete without a taste of its delightful desserts. Here are a couple of must-try sweets:
Coconut Sweets
Given the island’s abundance of coconut palms, it’s no surprise that coconut is a star ingredient in many Dominican desserts. You’ll find coconut flan, coconut candies, and more. A local favorite for all things coconut is Maria La Turca bakery, where you can find a wide array of coconutty treats.
Habichuelas con Dulce (Sweet Beans)
This unique dessert is especially popular during Lent and Easter. Habichuelas con dulce features sweetened beans cooked with spices and coconut milk. It’s a traditional treat with deep cultural significance and a flavor that’s both comforting and intriguing. You’ll find it served in homes and restaurants all over the island during the Lenten season.
Drinks and Juices
The Dominican Republic has a wide variety of fresh fruit juices, particularly passion fruit (called “chinola” there). You can also find mamey sapote and níspero, among many others.
Jugo de Chinola
Passion fruit juice is a flavorful, refreshing drink. If you enjoy fruit, you’ll probably find that jugo de chinola is the perfect way to cool off.
Vegetarian Options in the Dominican Republic
If you’re vegetarian, you’ll be happy to know that meat-free options are becoming more and more common in the DR. While traditional Dominican cuisine is heavily meat-based, many restaurants are starting to cater to vegetarian and vegan diets.
One place that is specifically recommended by travel bloggers is TIME Vegetarian Kitchen. You might also want to check out local markets for fresh fruits and vegetables, which can be used to create your own vegetarian meals.
In Closing
Dominican food isn’t just sustenance; it’s an immersion into the Dominican Republic’s vibrant culture and history. Every bite tells a story of resilience, fusion, and celebration.
To truly savor the flavors of the DR, get off the beaten path and explore local restaurants, bustling markets, and humble food stalls. That’s where you’ll find the heart of Dominican cooking.
One last tip: Keep some Dominican pesos on hand, especially when visiting smaller establishments in tourist areas. Now, go enjoy the deliciousness that awaits!