Most visitors to Dominican Republic know the country for its white-sand beaches, crystal clear
turquoise waters and ample opportunities for relaxation and play at the waterfront. But Dominican
Republic is also a prime destination for foodies, offering varied, mouthwatering cuisine that includes
fresh seafood, savory meats and inventive dishes that promise to entice even the most
particular palates.
"Our country offers more than just stunning views and water sports; it's also a gastronomical
hub with cuisine sure to please every taste," said Magaly Toribio, Marketing Advisor for the
Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism. "Tourists will be in awe of the variety of unique,
flavorful dishes available in all corners of Dominican Republic. They are guaranteed to find
the perfect dish to suit their mood."
Fresh Seafood, Direct From the Source
One can't fully experience the best of Dominican Republic cuisine without sampling the
country's fresh, succulent seafood, caught daily by fishermen along the coasts.
On the country's north coast, visitors are invited to sample a fusion of domestic and international
flavors, thanks in part to the large number of international tourists and expats that flock to Puerto
Plata and surrounding cities for world-class surfing and water sports. Pulpo al ajillo—garlic
octopus—is a popular dish in the region, made with fresh octopus, onion, garlic, olive oil, lemon,
tomato, parsley and salt to taste. The dish is full of fresh ingredients and flavors that work
together in harmony for a delectable culinary experience.
The calm waters surrounding the southwest coast are home to many types of fish including the
cero mackerel, mahi-mahi and snapper. Lobster, shrimp and crab are also popular delicacies
found throughout the country. Seafood lovers won't want to miss succulent fresh-caught crab,
shrimp served in rich coconut sauce or steaming hot boiled lobster. Fried fish served with
traditional tostones—twice fried green plantains —is another popular dish found along the coasts.
Signature Dishes and Savory Meats and Treats
The most iconic dish in Dominican Republic is la bandera, meaning "the flag" in Spanish. This
quintessential Dominican dish is made with rice, beans, fried bananas and stewed meat such
as chicken, beef or pork. It comes served with a lettuce, tomato and cabbage salad and can easily
be found throughout the country.
Tirao, a type of stew, is made with roughly chopped vegetables and large chunks of meat over a fire.
There is no exact science to the art of the tirao—ingredients are not measured precisely but come
together to create a rich, flavorful meal. This dish is especially popular in the waterfront town of
San Pedro de Macorís, along with domplines, made with flour, butter, olive oil, water and salt to
taste. Domplines,though plain on their own, are brought to life when served with coconut or
tomato sauce.
For carnivores, many coastal restaurants serve an array of fine meats. Cacerola de chivo, a dish
made with goat, spices and vegetables, is especially popular. Goat dishes can be found
throughout the country cooked in sauces that range from mild to spicy, but are most common
in the northwest province of Montecristi, an area well known for its goat recipes.
Yaniqueques, the Spanish-language interpretation of "Johnny Cakes," are ubiquitous at the
country's beaches. Yaniquques are made with flour, baking powder, oil, salt and water. The
mixture is kneaded and left to rest for an hour before being deep fried. The yaniqueque is one
of the most common foods sold by vendors dotted along beaches throughout coastal areas,
particularly on the northeast coast in the Samaná Peninsula. Samaná is also known for its
irresistible foods made with coconut—not only in desserts but also in rice, fish, sauces and meats.
Another coastal specialty is maicena de plátano—a paste made with bananas that are roasted
and then mashed to the consistency of cornmeal. Maicena de plátano is most commonly
produced near the southwest coastal city of Barahona and can have a unique flavor by
adding milk or cream.
Just west of Punta Cana on Dominican Republic's east coast, the town of Higüey is famous
for its dairy products, especially its famousqueso, a fresh, firm cheese that comes in the form
of a dense, moist ball.
Located in Dominican Republic's mountain region, the areas of Constanza and Jarabacoa offer
a signature chicken and rabbit paella. Paellais a rice-based dish that's cooked in a large shallow
pan and is bursting with flavor.
Also popular in the cool mountainous climate is sancocho, a national hot soup consisting of
multiple varieties of meat and tubers—vegetables composed of starches or carbohydrates—
like yuca, plantains and pumpkin. Like many Dominican dishes, this soup is best served
alongside rice. For dessert, the mountain areas are known for wild berry and peach jam.
For more information on Dominican Republic's tourism offerings, visit www.GoDominicanRepublic.com
About Dominican Republic
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, our
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on the north and the Caribbean Sea on the south, our
lush tropical and paradisiacal country boasts nearly 1,000 miles (1,609 km) of coastline, 250
miles (402 km) of the world's top beaches, magnificent resorts and hotels, and a variety
of sports, recreation and entertainment options. Here you can dance to the pulse pounding
thrill of the merengue, renew in our luxurious and diverse accommodations, explore ancient
relics of centuries past, delight in delicious Dominican gastronomy or enjoy ecotourism
adventures in our magnificent national parks, mountain ranges, rivers and beaches.
Known for our warm and hospitable people, Dominican Republic is a destination like no other,
featuring astounding nature, intriguing history and rich cultural experiences like music, art and
festivals, plus uniquely Dominican specialties such as cigars, rum, chocolate, coffee, merengue,
amber and larimar.
Dominican Republic features the best beaches, fascinating history and culture, and is a chosen
escape for celebrities, couples and families alike. Visit Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism's
official website at: www.GoDominicanRepublic.com.
Download the Go Dominican Republic App, available in the
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