Top 5 Dominican dishes that every visitor should try

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Hungry anyone? I certainly hope you are. Today we’re diving into the top 5 Dominican dishes that every visitor should absolutely try. Tasting Dominican local cuisine is one of the things that complete the Dominica experience and should certainly be added in as a huge part of every visitor’s travel itinerary when planning to visit the Nature Island.

Let’s get right into it!

^{#1 Broth}

A broth or ‘braff’ as we call it locally, is number one on our ‘must try’ list of Dominican cuisines. This dish is a ‘one pot holds all’ sort of meal that consists of a mouth watering soup, flavored with a mix of natural green seasonings and your choice of meat (fish, chicken, pork or smoked meat for a unique taste). This dish is not complete without a few additions of hand rolled dumplings, vegetables, potatoes and or ground provisions of your choice. Dominican broth is more commonly served on saturdays and If you’re looking for a flavor filled way to enjoy the weekend, this is the best choice of local cuisine that’s also notably packed with essential nutrients. 

^{#2 Chicken Pelau}

This dish is common throughout the Caribbean, although it may have a different name or can vary in preparation styles. Chicken Pelau is a popular dish which consists of brown rice, chicken, and lentils (peas). The meal’s ingredients are cooked with ‘gravy browning’ which gives it a rich flavor and brown color. Everyone who grew up in Dominica will agree that there’s something about the aroma and taste of chicken pelau that reminds you of your fondest childhood memories. Thankfully, visitors can also have the experience of this delightful meal, by purchasing this from local restaurants when visiting the island (typically available on a Saturday also).

^{#3 Sancoche}

If you’re in the mood to have a party on your taste buds then this next dish Sanchoche, will sure give you what you’re looking for. Sancoche is a cook up of salt fish or codfish stewed in coconut milk, along with green seasonings (particularly onion, black pepper, chive and other condiments).  This dish is quite tasty and can easily be eaten for lunch or dinner, made complete with added provisions.

^{#4 Bakes}

Number 4 on our list of delicious delights are bakes (also called Johnny cakes or fried dumplings in other Caribbean islands). These are thin or rounded, fried, golden brown, circular, unsweetened dough treats which can be eaten at any time of day. Once fried, they are served plain or stuffed with codfish, cheese or tuna, which makes an excellent grab and go meal suitable for any time of the day.

^{#5 Fish and chips}

Our fifth and final pick is Dominican Fish and chips. What’s so great about the fish and chips? Well, it’s pretty ordinary in most parts for the island, but if you travel to the south, then you’ll know why this simple yet delicious meal has made our top 5 list. Maybe it’s because the south has a lot of coastal areas and fishing communities, but something about the preparation of fish by southern vendors is definitely to die for. You can get your fish steamed and sautéed in vegetable sauce, grilled or pan fried, doused in onions, herbs and natural seasonings and served along with a side of crispy French fries or salad. Locals and visitors alike drive 5 – 20 minutes south from the capital city Roseau, (depending on how far south you wish to go from Newtown to Scottshead), hoping to grab a bite of ‘the catch of the south.’ 

There you have it, the top 5 meals you absolutely must try while visiting Dominica. Granted, there are other foods which should be listed, but these are the top 5 that say ‘welcome’ to the visitor and ‘welcome home’ to the returning resident. 

 

Written by: Dilma Bastien