When planning a party or family gathering, one of the biggest decisions can be what dishes to serve. But why stick to the same old recipes when you can take a culinary trip around the world? We’ve curated a list of the top 30 Dominican appetizers that are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
From classic dishes like Batatas Fritas (Fried Boniato) and Dominican Stuffed Plantain Cups, to innovative twists like Dominican Chimichurri Burgers and Dominican-Style Hot Dogs, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? Most of these recipes can be easily adapted to use less oil by incorporating your air fryer. So why not treat your taste buds (and those of your guests) to a little Caribbean flair?
We guarantee that these dishes will transport you to the islands with every delicious bite.
Dominican Stuffed Plantain Cups
A staple of Dominican cuisine is the crispy, flavorful plantain appetizer that can be easily replicated at home. The process begins by frying ripe plantains until they’re golden brown. Next, use your hands to gently press each plantain into a cup-like shape, allowing any excess oil to drain away. To maintain their new form, give them a quick fry again before serving.
This versatile appetizer can be taken to the next level with various toppings such as savory meats, fish, or an array of colorful vegetables.
Dominican Republic Bolitos De Yuca
Are you a self-proclaimed cheese aficionado? Then you’re in for a treat! These bite-sized Yuca balls, filled to the brim with melted cheesy goodness, are an absolute must-have at any gathering. Despite their small size, they pack a punch when served hot, releasing a river of gooey cheese that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? You can enjoy them on their own or paired with a tangy dip – either way, the result is a flavor combination that’s simply irresistible.
Yaniqueques (Fried Bread)
One more effortless fryer appetizer is worth exploring. Made with simple flour dough, this treat requires minimal effort before being fried to perfection. The versatility of this snack lies in its ability to be enjoyed sweet or savory, depending on your preference. Drizzle it with cinnamon sugar for a sweet indulgence or keep it simple with a sprinkle of sea salt for a satisfying snack.
A little-known secret to enhancing the flavor is to use day-old oil, which adds a unique twist to this already easy-to-make delight.
Arepitas De Maiz (Cornmeal Fritters)
Savory and addictive, this crunchy appetizer requires only six simple ingredients. To prepare, combine all the necessary components and fry until they reach a golden brown color. While it can be enjoyed at room temperature, for an optimal texture that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it’s best devoured while still warm.
Quipes-Beef & Bulgur Meatballs
Quipes, also known as Kipes, is a beloved party snack in the Dominican Republic. This savory treat is essentially a bite-sized fusion of fried beef and bulgur, expertly combined to resemble a meatball. Interestingly, this dish bears resemblance to its Lebanese counterpart, Kibbeh, with both sharing similarities in their composition.
Dominican Republic Green Salad
This vibrant salad defies traditional expectations with its unique twist: boiled cob corn adds a delightful surprise. The inclusion of this unexpected ingredient gives way to an array of flavors and textures, setting the stage for a culinary experience that’s anything but ordinary. To further enhance the dish, the chef incorporates pickled onions as part of the dressing, infusing the salad with a tangy, savory essence.
The result is a visually stunning creation that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Tostones
To prepare the quintessential Caribbean delicacy, tostones, start by cutting green plantains into desired sizes. The key to achieving their signature crunch lies in a two-step frying process. First, fry the sliced plantains until they’re slightly tender, then remove them from the oil and flatten them to your liking. Finally, give them another fry for an extra crispy texture. It’s a straightforward process that yields impressive results.
Serve your tostones with a dollop of cilantro garlic sauce, and you’ll be hooked on their addictive flavor combination.
Crispy Fried Chicken (Chicharrones De Pollo
Indulge in the delectable Dominican-style fried chicken that will leave you craving for more. This mouthwatering dish starts with marinated chicken that’s infused with the zesty flavors of lime and garlic. The tender pieces are then coated with a seasoned flour mixture, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to juicy perfection. To elevate the flavor even further, consider serving it with a tangy sofrito sauce or a rich garlic mayo for dipping.
Dominican Tamales
Indulge your loved ones with a mouthwatering banana leaf-wrapped culinary delight that’s deeply rooted in Dominican culture. Known as Pasteles en Hoja, it’s a staple at family gatherings, where the aroma of tender meat and spices fills the air. One of the best aspects is its versatility – make large batches, freeze some for later, and still savor the flavors.
Catibias (Dominican Yucca Empanadas)
While empanadas may be a familiar treat, these delectable bites take on a unique twist. Rather than relying on traditional wheat flour dough, they employ yucca or catabia flour to create a distinct flavor profile. Each bite-sized morsel is carefully crafted with savory fillings, comprising tender meat, melted cheese, and an assortment of fresh vegetables. After being carefully fried until golden and crispy, these mouthwatering snacks are ready to be devoured.
Whether enjoyed as a casual street food or elevated to appetizer status, this delightful dish is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Pastelitos
While sharing similarities with traditional Dominican empanadas, this version takes on a distinct characteristic – its round shape and delicate dough. The flexibility in filling options allows for a delightful combination of beef or marinated chicken paired with an assortment of vegetables, including spinach and chopped olives. The harmonious balance of tangy olive flavors and aromatic spices elevates this staple to new heights, making it a standout treat.
Dominican Chimichurri Burgers
Indulge in the rich flavors of our signature Chimi Burgers, a must-try for any burger enthusiast. The patty recipe is a masterclass in layering tastes, allowing you to pan-fry or grill them to perfection and achieve that coveted smoky undertone. One bite and you’ll be hooked – the addictive quality of this culinary masterpiece is undeniable.
Telera Bread
Experience the irresistible charm of Dominican bread, a culinary delight that will leave you craving for more! Its delicate exterior crust gives way to an incredibly scrumptious taste that lingers long after the last bite. The key to this recipe’s success lies in its two essential ingredients: lard and honey. These fundamental components cannot be substituted or omitted without sacrificing the bread’s signature flavor and texture.
Enjoy it on its own as a snack or paired with savory meats and sausages for a satisfying meal.
Nino Envuelto (Rice & Beef Cabbage Rolls)
While resembling spring rolls at first glance, this unique appetizer employs cabbage as its wrapping material instead. The harmonious blend of savory meat and sofrito sauce elevates the dish, making it an excellent choice for adding some flair to your small plate offerings.
Pan Con Aguacate (Avocado-Stuffed bread)
When it comes to whipping up a quick yet satisfying appetizer, there’s no better option than this easy-to-make delight. At a fraction of the cost of many other options, this dish is a game-changer for those looking to impress without breaking the bank. The combination of creamy sliced avocado, sautéed onion and red bell pepper atop toasted bread is nothing short of magical.
Not only does it tantalize the taste buds with its fresh flavors, but it also fills you up in a way that leaves you feeling pleasantly sated until the next course. With its simplicity and versatility, this recipe is sure to become a go-to for any occasion.
Dominican Beef Empanadas
Empanadas boast a unique characteristic – their dough is noticeably more buttery and crispy than that of pastelitos. The thickness of the empanada dough also sets it apart, with a semi-circular shape formed to perfection. Whether you prefer the golden crispiness of frying or the ease of baking, these empanadas can be prepared in either manner, allowing for versatility and convenience.
Yaroa Dominican
This mouthwatering dish is a unique fusion of flavors and textures, featuring French fries as the base layer. The fries provide a crispy foundation for the rich combination of slow-cooked beef and tangy tomato sauce. A layer of melted cheese adds creaminess, while the pink sauce – a delightful blend of mayonnaise and ketchup – brings everything together. In many ways, the preparation process mirrors that of Chili Cheese Fries, making this dish all the more irresistible.
Once you’ve taken a bite, it’s hard to stop at just one – the addictive flavor combination will leave you craving more.
Dominican Ceviche
Indulge in the simplicity of a delicious raw seafood appetizer! By marinating fresh seafood in a zesty mixture of citrus juice and aromatic spices, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and quick to prepare. The best part? You won’t need to spend hours in the kitchen or worry about complicated cooking techniques. Simply combine your ingredients, let the magic happen, and enjoy a satisfying snack that’s sure to please.
Arepitas De Yuca
In Dominican cuisine, Yuca – also known as Cassava – is a staple ingredient, often used in conjunction with plantains. This recipe showcases the versatility of Yuca by combining it with aromatic spices and frying for a crispy treat. The process begins with grating the Yuca to a fine texture, then mixing it with other seasonings before cooking. And the best part? It’s remarkably straightforward!
Chulitos De Yuca Con Queso
In the culinary landscape of the Dominican Republic, Chulitos hold a special place as a beloved appetizer. These bite-sized treats consist of grated cassava that is transformed into a mouthwatering combination with a cheese filling that melts in harmony with your taste buds. The beauty of Chulitos lies in their versatility – they can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a spicy beef filling, which adds an extra layer of depth to the dish.
Whichever way you choose to savor them, Chulitos are sure to delight!
Chicken Croquettes
While Christmas dinner is the traditional occasion for indulging in this savory delight, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy it at any time of the year. The combination of fried, boiled or roasted chicken mixed with spices, coated in a layer of egg and crunchy breadcrumbs is a match made in heaven. For added depth of flavor, consider whipping up a tangy pink sauce using ketchup, mayonnaise, and sriracha as your base ingredients. Just thinking about it is enough to get the taste buds tingling!
Fried Sweet Plantain
Imagine the perfect fusion: an appetizer and a side dish combined into one delightful plate. To create this culinary masterpiece, start by slicing green plantains into desired portions. Then, fry them until they’re crispy and golden brown. For an added touch of sweetness, consider sprinkling a pinch of sugar onto the plantains while they’re frying. This will give your creation an extra layer of flavor that’s sure to impress.
Batatas Fritas (Fried Boniato)
A delicious and effortless appetizer can be prepared by transforming sweet potatoes into crispy ‘fries’. Begin by slicing the sweet potatoes into thin strips, similar to traditional potato fries. Next, sprinkle a pinch of salt over the slices to enhance their natural sweetness. Finally, fry the sweet potato strips until they’re golden brown and enjoy as a tasty, satisfying snack.
Bacalaitos (COD Fish Fritters)
In contrast to traditional fritter recipes that often rely on beef or chicken, Dominican fritters take a unique approach by incorporating fish as the primary protein source. This distinct twist not only adds a new layer of flavor but also sets these sweet treats apart from other culinary delights. To elevate this recipe to new heights, a little-known secret lies in chilling the batter overnight before frying.
By doing so, you can effectively reduce the salty undertones often associated with cod fish, resulting in a more balanced and enjoyable taste experience.
Tostones Rellenos
For a satisfying twist on traditional empanadas, start by preparing the filling. Combine savory ingredients like smoked ham, succulent shrimp, an assortment of colorful vegetables, and a blend of melted cheeses. To add a unique texture, fry green bananas twice – first to soften them, then again until crispy. This unexpected combination will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Quezo Fundido With Chorizo
Savor the perfect blend of flavors with an appetizer that’s sure to please. Melted cheese is the star of the show, paired with the bold and zesty chorizo. For added depth, a splash of tequila adds a touch of sophistication. Take it up a notch by incorporating spicy jalapenos for a burst of heat. No matter what your taste buds are craving, an ice-cold beer will be the perfect accompaniment to this delightful dish.
Mangú (Plantain) Breakfast Bites
Inspired by the traditional Dominican breakfast dish, Mangú, this bite-sized delight is perfect for buffets. A twist on the original recipe, chives are added to give the dish a pop of color without overpowering the flavor with onion. Be prepared for a rush of interest and don’t be surprised if lines form – it’s that good!
Dominican Eggplant Fritters (Torrejas De Berenjenas)
Unlike Bacalaitos, this dish relies on the rich flavor of eggplant instead. As a vegetarian option, it’s surprisingly satisfying and impossible to stop at just one bite. The combination of textures and tastes is nothing short of finger-licking-good.
Dominican-Style Hot Dogs
Hosting a backyard barbecue and looking for a crowd-pleasing main attraction? Look no further! A grilled hot dog with an array of delicious toppings is sure to impress. Whether you choose to serve them on a bun or enjoy the hot dogs on their own, this classic summer treat is a winner every time. And the best part? You can customize your hot dogs to suit any taste with creative topping combinations like creamy guacamole or tangy Dijon mustard.
Dominican Fried Salami & Cheese
While it may seem like quick and easy dishes can’t possibly rival those that require more time and effort, think again! The Dominican Fried Salami & Cheese is a perfect example of how flavor isn’t sacrificed in the process. This delightful snack, paired with a savory garlic-inspired dip, makes for an unforgettable appetizer experience.
The bottom line
Experience the flavors of the Dominican Republic without leaving home! You can surprise your family and friends with a taste adventure by trying out our list of 30 delicious and easy-to-make appetizers. From classic favorites to modern twists, we’ve curated a collection that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re planning a party or just looking for some inspiration for your next meal, these recipes are perfect for bringing a touch of the Caribbean to your table.
