Dominican Republic Dishes For Your Must Try Bucket List
Here’s our short list of all the best Dominican cuisine, whether you want to spice up your palette, find foods for a future visit, or just take a few steps down memory lane. Also, some of these “Dominican” dishes have originated from elsewhere (African, native Taíno, and Spanish influences) but have become to popular and common there that most considered them to be Dominican. So by including them in this list, I’m not trying to give all the credit to Dominican Republic but acknowledge the most popular dishes you would find there.
Pastelitos-
Much like a small version of an Empanada, this appetizer is a small stuffed pastry. The stuffing possibilities are endless, however the most popular ones are filled with either meat or cheese. If you’re filling adventurous then you could try both, but my personal favorite is cheese for sure.
Chivo-
I know that meat is not for everyone, but for those carnivores out there, I’d definitely recommend Chivo (or in other words, goat). This Dominican dish is often cooked guisado (stewed) and is definitely a recipe any meat lover would enjoy. Tender and packed to the brim with flavors, it’s no wonder that this one of Dominican Republic’s signature stews.
Pescado Frito-
Translated literally as “fried fish”, this meal is a great choice for seafood lovers out there. Made by dipping flour covered fish in oil and frying them, the fish is served hot and fresh. Usually topped with lemon to squeeze over the meal, this could be a hearty appetizer or a pleasant meal. This is a food to put on your must-eat at least once list.
Chicharrones-
While chicharrones is usually made of pork rinds, DR’s chicken chicharrons are amazing pieces of crisp and golden meat. Usually paired with tostónes, this meal is crunchy yet juicy. No matter which kind of meat you choose, making chicharrones is a definite good idea for dinner.
Bizcocho Dominicano-
Translated as “Dominican cake”, this dessert known to be a light and fluffy yellow cake with meringue frosting and more often than not, pineapple filling. However, some experiment with different types of fillings, pineapple is the peak of Dominican cuisine. Silky smooth with a resistant texture, Dominican cake is known for being hard to make so make sure to check out recipes before trying it out for yourself.
