Puchero Dominicano
A hearty and flavorful stew featuring a variety of meats (beef, pork, chicken) and root vegetables, simmered in a rich broth. It's a comforting and traditional dish often prepared for family gatherings.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 lb Beef chuck(cut into 2-inch cubes)
- 1 lb Pork shoulder(cut into 2-inch cubes)
- 4 bone-in, skin-on Chicken thighs
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 1 green Bell pepper(chopped)
- 3 medium Carrots(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 3 medium Potatoes(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 1 medium Sweet potatoes(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 2 ears Corn on the cob(cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 1 can (15 oz) Chickpeas(rinsed and drained)
- 1/4 cup Cilantro(chopped)
- 1 tsp Oregano(dried)
- 1 Bay leaf
- 8 cups Water or Broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef and pork cubes on all sides. Remove and set aside.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Add the chicken thighs to the pot and sear until golden brown. Remove and set aside with the beef and pork.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 6 minutes - 4
Stir in the diced tomatoes and chopped bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Return the browned meats to the pot. Add the carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, corn, chickpeas, cilantro, oregano, and bay leaf. Pour in the water or broth.
- 6
Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meats are tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
⏱️ 1.5-2 hours💡 Tip: Skim off any excess fat from the surface during simmering. - 7
Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- 8
Serve hot, ensuring each bowl gets a variety of meats and vegetables.
💡 Tip: Traditionally served with white rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use beef broth instead of water.
- ✓Adjust the types and quantities of vegetables based on preference and availability.
- ✓This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
🔄 Variations
- Add other root vegetables like yuca or ñame.
- Include a smoked pork hock for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.