The Dominican Republic, a country full of life, history, and culture, is not only known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate but also for its delicious cuisine. Dominican food is a blend of indigenous flavors, as well as African, European, and Caribbean influences.

That’s why today we want to recommend the 5 most typical dishes of The Dominican Republic.

We’re sure that Dominican food will be another factor that will make you fall in love with this beautiful destination.

1. Bandera Dominicana

The Bandera Dominicana is considered the national dish of the Dominican people. It consists of white rice, chicken or beef, and red beans, usually accompanied by tostones (fried plantains), a green salad, or even avocado.

It is one of the most commonly prepared dishes in the Dominican Republic, and it's not unusual to see households having it for lunch up to four times a week.

Moreover, it is said that the name Bandera Dominicana comes from the colors of the dish, which resemble those of the country's flag.

Certainly, you can't visit the country without trying it, as it is part of the Dominican Republic's national identity.

2. Sancocho 

Dominican Sancocho is a stew made with various types of meat, vegetables, and tubers, all simmering in water until they create a delicious broth that you won’t forget. There are different versions, with the "7 meats" version being the most complete and luxurious.

It is a typical dish for Dominican celebrations, and just the word “sancocho” is synonymous with fun gatherings, accompanied by some rum and plenty of laughter.

Don't let the fact that it’s a soup in a warm country fool you—give it a chance and try it, you’ll definitely love it.

3. Mangú

Mangú is a smooth purée made from green plantains, and its most complete version is served with the “tres golpes” (three hits): eggs, salami, and cheese. It’s typically eaten for breakfast since it’s an economical dish to prepare, but at the same time, it’s tasty and perfect to start a new workday.

As an anecdote, although it hasn’t been proven, it is said that the name comes from the American invasion of the country. When Americans tried the dish, they would say, “man, this is good,” and the Dominicans, who didn’t know English, ended up calling it "mangú."

Although it is usually made with green plantains, there is also a sweet version made with ripe plantains.

It’s definitely a dish that’s deeply rooted in the heart of the Dominican people, as it has played a crucial role in feeding and nourishing the population, especially during times of crisis or among economically disadvantaged social classes.

4. Pastel en hoja

Dominican Pastel en Hoja is a fairly elaborate dish usually prepared for Christmas celebrations. In fact, for many Dominicans, Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without pasteles en hoja on the dinner table.

However, don’t dismiss eating it at any time of the year—it can be made year-round, and you’ll enjoy it to the fullest whenever you have it.

Its preparation is more labor-intensive than other traditional dishes, and it combines many tropical flavors, as it includes plantains, seasoned meat with Dominican spices, all wrapped in a plantain leaf to cook. There are versions made with cassava or containing various tubers.

Because of its complexity, it’s often bought pre-made, and all that’s left to do is cook it.

5. Habichuelas con Dulce

Exactamente tal y como lo lees, en República Dominicana existe un plato que son habichuelas dulces, y se toman de postre. Se preparan sobre todo en época de cuaresma y Semana Santa, y hay quienes las prefieren calientes, tibias o frías… 

Es verdad que a los extranjeros les suele costar tomar la iniciativa de probarlo, ya que no asocian la palabra habichuelas y la palabra dulce en una misma frase. Pero forman parte de la idiosincrasia dominicana y si tienes la oportunidad te invitamos a que pruebes una cucharada.

Aunque existen ligeras variables sobre la misma receta, lo normal es que las habichuelas lleven leche condensada, leche de coco, canela, clavo y se decoren con unas galletitas flotantes.

Consejos Finales

Al viajar a la República Dominicana, no solo disfrutarás de paisajes impresionantes, sino también de una comida que reflejará la calidez de su gente. Cada plato tiene su historia y tradiciones, por lo que te recomiendo que no dudes en preguntar a los locales sobre sus recetas y secretos culinarios. ¡Te aseguro que tu paladar quedará encantado!

Te recomendamos nuestra excursión La Hacienda para disfrutar de parte de estos manjares, la misma tiene un almuerzo donde puedes encontrar la bandera y el más delicioso sancocho de la zona.

¡Es momento de viajar y tomar control de tus sueños, no esperes más!