When dining at a Dominican restaurant, you’ll have the opportunity to try bold flavors and mouthwatering dishes unique to the region. Sancocho, for example, is bound to be on the menu, whether it’s brunch or dinner time. If you’re unfamiliar with this delicacy, its history, and the preparation process, here is some basic information to tempt you to try it the next time you visit a Dominican restaurant. 

A Guide to Sancocho

What Is Sancocho?

Sancocho is a stew or soup rich in meats and starchy vegetables like plantains and yuca. It’s a celebratory dish in the Dominican Republic. The stew originated in the Spanish Canary Islands; however, this dish has various recipes and iterations across Latin America using different proteins and preparation methods. A seven-meat version is synonymous with the Dominican Republic, and is considered a special occasion meal which makes it stand out when compared to recipes commonly seen in Spanish food. 

How Is It Prepared?

A traditional version of sancocho you’re likely to see in a Dominican restaurant will contain seven different kinds of meat. Recipes can vary, but typically, they’ll include a combination of cuts of goat, beef, pork, and chicken, as well as bones to give the broth more flavor. The meat and bones are seasoned with a multitude of spices like adobo, salt, pepper, garlic, and lime.

Once cooked, chefs add water to create the soup’s base. Next, the meats are combined with vegetables like corn, yuca, plantains, pumpkin squash, taro, and carrots. The stew simmers until all the vegetables are soft and cooked all the way through. Sancocho is served hot with a side of rice, fresh avocado slices, and a touch of cilantro to garnish.

If you’re looking for a delicious Dominican restaurant in Woodside, Queens, Mamajuana Cafe Queens is the ideal destination. With a menu that boasts a wide range of Dominican and Latin food, every member of your family will find something to enjoy. Call (718) 565-6454 to make a reservation for a group of nine or more and visit their website to learn more about their lively weekend brunch buffets.