Explore the unique flavors of the Dominican Republic with our guide to must-try local dishes and beverages. Discover culinary delights and refreshments not to be missed.
Welcome to the Dominican Republic, a paradise not only for its beaches and festivals but also for its food.
The Dominican Republic is a foodie’s paradise. This country full of history and culture has a lot of delicious dishes and refreshing drinks that reflect its diversity and traditions. Dominican cuisine is a mix of African, Spanish and Taino, an explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds happy.
Dive into Dominican flavors with our guide to typical dishes and local drinks you can’t miss. Rent a car to delight your taste buds!
1. The Dominican Flag
Description: Considered the national dish, La Bandera Dominicana is white rice, red beans, meat (chicken or beef) and salad. It’s a balanced meal loved by all Dominicans.
Tip: Add a little hot sauce.
2. Sancocho
Description: Sancocho is a thick and comforting stew with various types of meat (beef, pork and chicken), sweet potato, cassava, plantain and spices. It’s served on special occasions.
Tip: Serve with white rice for a full meal.
3. Mangu
Description: Mangu is a traditional breakfast made with boiled and mashed plantains, often with eggs, salami and fried cheese. It’s a great way to start the day.
Tip: Add caramelized onions for a sweet touch.
4. Tostones
Description: Tostones are fried plantains, mashed and refried to be crunchy. They’re served as a side or snack.
Tip: Serve with garlic sauce.
5. Fried fish
Description: Fried fish is a whole fish fried and served with rice, beans and salad. This is very popular in the coastal areas.
Tip: Add a little lime to the fish.
6. Pica Pollo
Description: Pica pollo is the Dominican version of fried chicken. It’s marinated in garlic, oregano and lemon juice before frying until crispy and golden.
Serving suggestion: Serve with tostones (fried plantains) and hot sauce.
7. Mofongo
Description: From Puerto Rico but very popular in the Dominican Republic, mofongo is a puree of fried plantains with garlic and chicharrón.
Tip: Add sautéed shrimp or meat.
8. Asopao
Description: Asopao is a thick rice soup, like risotto, with chicken, vegetables and spices. It’s a great comfort food for rainy days.
Tip: Add seafood for an even richer variation.
Alcoholic beverages
1. Mamajuana
Description: Mamajuana is a traditional Dominican drink made by macerating rum, red wine, honey, herbs and bark in a bottle. Considered an aphrodisiac and natural remedy, this unique drink has a complex and rich flavor.
Tip: Enjoy it in small doses, as it is quite strong.
2. Ron Dominicano
Description: The Dominican Republic is famous for its high quality rum. The most famous brands are Brugal, Barceló and Bermúdez. Dominican rum can be drunk neat, on the rocks or as the main ingredient in various cocktails.
Tip: Try aged rum, which has been aged for several years in oak barrels, for a deeper flavor.
3. Presidente
Description: Presidente is the national beer of the Dominican Republic. It is a light and refreshing lager, ideal to quench your thirst under the Caribbean sun.
Tip: Serve chilled with a slice of lime for an extra touch of freshness.
Cócteles
1. Piña Colada
Description: This famous tropical cocktail, made with rum, pineapple juice and coconut milk, has its roots in the Dominican Republic. It's a smooth, creamy drink that instantly evokes a beach vacation.
Tip: Garnish your piña colada with a pineapple slice and a cherry for a perfect presentation.
2. Cuba Libre
Description: This simple but classic cocktail is made with rum, cola and lime juice. Although its name means "Cuba Libre", it is very popular in the Dominican Republic.
Tip: Use Dominican rum for an authentic local touch.
Non-alcoholic beverages
1. Chinola Juice
Description: Chinola juice is a popular soft drink made from fresh passion fruit. It is a sweet and tart drink, perfect for refreshment.
Tip: Serve chilled with ice cubes and a mint leaf for an even more refreshing drink.
2. Morir Soñando
Description: This evocatively named drink (meaning "to die dreaming") is made with milk, orange juice, sugar and ice. It is a creamy and sweet mixture that pleases everyone who tries it.
Tip: Mix the ingredients just before serving to prevent the milk from curdling.
3. Coconut water
Description: Coconut water, straight from the green coconut, is a naturally sweet and electrolyte-rich hydrating drink.
Tip: Drink it straight from the coconut with a straw for an authentic experience.
What typical Dominican dishes are not to be missed at the dominican cuisine? | What is the national drink of the Dominican Republic? |
|---|---|
The must-try dishes are in the dominican cuisine are La Bandera Dominicana or dominican flag, Sancocho, Mangu whit fried eggs and fried dominican salami, Tostones and Pescado Frito. | The national drink is Mamajuana, a mixture of rum, red wine, honey and local herbs. |
Is it possible to buy Dominican rum outside the country? | What is mangu? with fried eggs and fried cheese |
|---|---|
Yes, Dominican rum brands such as Brugal and Barceló are available in many countries around the world. | Mangu is a traditional breakfast based on boiled and mashed plantains, often served with eggs, salami and fried cheese. |
Can Presidente beer be purchased outside the Dominican Republic? | |
|---|---|
Yes, Presidente beer is exported and is available in some regions of the United States and other countries. | Bon appetit and cheers! |
The Dominican Republic offers a rich and diverse culinary adventure, from tasty dishes to refreshing drinks. Whether you are looking for new flavors or simply want to savor the delights of this beautiful island, don't forget to try these typical local dishes and drinks during your visit.