Indulge in the rich flavors of the Dominican Republic with our traditional Sancocho recipe. This hearty stew, often referred to as the country's national dish, is a culinary masterpiece that brings together an array of ingredients in a harmonious symphony of taste and texture. Imagine tender meats, such as chicken, beef, and pork, simmered to perfection alongside a medley of root vegetables like yuca, plantains, and sweet potatoes, infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Served steaming hot, this comforting dish is more than a meal; it's a cultural experience that embodies the warmth and hospitality of the Dominican people. Whether enjoyed with family and friends or savored as a solo delight, our Sancocho recipe promises to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of the Caribbean.

Here's a traditional recipe for Dominican Republic Sancocho:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) of beef (such as flank steak or stewing beef), cut into chunks
• 1 lb (450g) of chicken pieces (bone-in for extra flavor)
• 1 lb (450g) of pork (such as pork ribs or pork shoulder), cut into chunks
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 ears of corn, each cut into 3-4 pieces
• 1 lb (450g) of yuca (cassava), peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 green plantains, peeled and sliced
• 1 lb (450g) of sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 cups (2 liters) of chicken or beef broth
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:

1- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

2- Add the beef, chicken, and pork to the pot, and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

3- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes.

4- Pour in the chicken or beef broth, and add the dried oregano, thyme, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, partially covered, for about 30 minutes.

5- After 30 minutes, add the yuca (cassava), green plantains, sweet potatoes, and corn to the pot. Cover and simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until all the meats and vegetables are tender.

6- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

7- Serve the Sancocho hot in large bowls, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Enjoy this hearty stew with some rice and avocado on the side for a truly authentic Dominican experience!

This recipe makes about 6-8 servings. Adjust the ingredients according to your preferences and the number of people you're serving. Bon appétit!

Nutritional Values:

Providing precise nutritional values for recipes can vary based on factors such as specific ingredients used, cooking methods, and serving sizes. However, I can provide approximate nutritional information for some of the main ingredients typically found in Dominican Sancocho:

Beef (1 lb / 450g):

• Calories: Approximately 850
• Protein: Approximately 85g
• Fat: Approximately 55g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:Beef is a good source of high-quality protein, iron, zinc, and various B vitamins, which are essential for muscle health, immune function, and energy production.

Chicken (1 lb / 450g):

• Calories: Approximately 880
• Protein: Approximately 100g
• Fat: Approximately 55g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:Chicken is rich in protein, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium. It supports muscle growth and repair, promotes heart health, and boosts the immune system.

Pork (1 lb / 450g):

• Calories: Approximately 1300
• Protein: Approximately 85g
• Fat: Approximately 105g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:Pork provides protein, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, vitamin B12, zinc, and phosphorus. It contributes to muscle function, energy metabolism, and immune function.

Yuca (1 lb / 450g):

• Calories: Approximately 640
• Protein: Approximately 4g
• Fat: Approximately 0g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 160g

benefits:Yuca is a starchy root vegetable that is a good source of carbohydrates and fiber. It provides energy, supports digestive health, and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Green Plantains (2 plantains):

• Calories: Approximately 450
• Protein: Approximately 3g
• Fat: Approximately 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 120g

benefits:Green plantains are a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins A and C. They promote digestive health, provide sustained energy, and support immune function.

Sweet Potatoes (1 lb / 450g):

• Calories: Approximately 400
• Protein: Approximately 6g
• Fat: Approximately 0g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 90g

benefits:Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. They support digestive health, boost immunity, and may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Corn (2 ears):

• Calories: Approximately 160
• Protein: Approximately 6g
• Fat: Approximately 2g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 34g

benefits:Corn is a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins B and C, and antioxidants. It supports digestive health, provides energy, and promotes heart health.

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on factors such as specific cuts of meat, cooking methods, and other ingredients. If you require more precise nutritional information, you may consider inputting the exact ingredients and quantities into a nutritional calculator or consulting a registered dietitian.