Puerto Rico, a tropical island with a rich cultural heritage, is famous for its delicious cuisine. From traditional dishes to modern twists, Puerto Rican food is a reflection of the country’s history and its people’s love for good eating. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just want to spice up your meals, here are 18 flavorful Puerto Rican recipes that will transport your taste buds to the island of enchantment.
Arroz con Gandules
This classic Puerto Rican dish combines savory chicken broth-infused rice with the sweetness of pigeon peas and the smokiness of sausage, making it a staple at any celebration. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be enjoying flavorful Arroz con Gandules in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 pound dried pigeon peas (gandules)
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as chorizo or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the rice and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring well to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Add the pigeon peas and cooked sausage back into the skillet. Stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pernil (Roast Pork Shoulder)
This traditional Puerto Rican dish is a staple at any celebration or gathering. With its tender, flavorful meat and crispy skin, Pernil is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup oregano, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, oregano, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cumin.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven and roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Mofongo
A classic Puerto Rican dish, Mofongo is a flavorful and textured culinary delight made from mashed green plantains, garlic, and your choice of protein.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe green plantains
– 1/4 cup chopped garlic
– 1/4 cup chicken broth or pork cracklings (optional)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Your preferred protein (e.g., shrimp, chicken, beef, or pork)
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and cut them into 1-inch pieces.
2. Boil the plantain pieces in water for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re soft.
3. Drain the plantains and mash them in a large bowl using a fork or potato masher.
4. Add the chopped garlic, chicken broth (if using), and vegetable oil to the mashed plantains. Mix well.
5. Shape the Mofongo mixture into 2-3 oval-shaped patties, depending on desired size.
6. Pan-fry the Mofongo in a little oil until crispy and golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
7. Serve with your preferred protein and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
Pasteles
Pasteles are a beloved Puerto Rican dish, typically served during the holidays and special occasions. These sweet potato-filled pastry pockets are a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 package of pasteles dough (or homemade version made with flour, water, and lard)
– 1/4 cup of sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
3. Roll out the pasteles dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Place small spoonfuls of the sweet potato mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges together with a fork.
6. Brush tops with melted butter and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tostones
Tostones are a classic Latin American snack made from fried or baked green plantains, perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make crispy tostones that are easy to prepare and deliciously flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 ripe green plantains
– Vegetable oil for frying (about 1/2 inch deep)
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to medium-high heat.
2. Peel the plantains and cut them into 1-inch rounds.
3. Fry the plantain slices in batches until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the tostones from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Sprinkle with salt and any desired seasonings while still warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, depending on the number of plantains you’re frying.
Bacalaitos (Salt Cod Fritters)
A traditional Puerto Rican snack that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, Bacalaitos are a delicious treat perfect for any occasion. This recipe uses salt cod, a staple ingredient in many Latin American cuisines.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup salt cod (dried and soaked overnight)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Drain the cod and flake it into small pieces.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Add the cod to the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the vegetable oil to the mixture, stirring until a thick batter forms.
5. Beat in the egg and add water as needed to achieve the right consistency.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
7. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the oil.
8. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 6-8 minutes per batch.
Alcapurrias
Alcapurrias are a beloved snack in Puerto Rico, consisting of crispy fried dough filled with savory beef and potato. This recipe brings the authentic flavor to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground beef
+ 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
+ 1 onion, finely chopped
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add vegetable oil and warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Flatten each ball into a thin circle.
5. Place a spoonful of the beef and potato filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Fry Alcapurrias in hot oil until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Puerto Rican-style Alcapurrias!
Sancocho (Hearty Stew)
Get ready to warm up with this traditional Puerto Rican Sancocho, a hearty stew that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup of yuca (casaba), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup of plantain, peeled and sliced
– 2 cups of beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, potatoes, yuca, and plantain. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the beef broth and add cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until meat is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Lechón Asado (Whole Roasted Pig)
Experience the rich flavors of the Philippines with this iconic dish, perfect for special occasions and gatherings. Lechón Asado is a slow-cooked whole roasted pig that’s marinated in a mixture of sour orange juice, garlic, and spices before being pit-roasted to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole pig (20-25 lbs), cleaned and gutted
– 1/2 cup sour orange juice
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together sour orange juice, vinegar, garlic, black pepper, salt, paprika, and cumin.
2. Submerge the whole pig in the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 days or up to 5 days.
4. Preheat pit-roaster or oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Roast the pig for about 4-6 hours or until skin is crispy and meat is tender.
6. Let rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-6 hours
Habichuelas Guisadas (Stewed Beans)
This traditional Latin American dish is a hearty and comforting staple, perfect for any meal. With its rich flavor profile and tender texture, Habichuelas Guisadas is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine soaked and drained navy beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and cumin.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes and add enough water to cover the ingredients by about an inch.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
4. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Pollo Guisado (Puerto Rican Chicken Stew)
Experience the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with this hearty chicken stew, packed with tender chicken, sweet plantains, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 ripe plantains, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the plantains, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth and water; stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, until the chicken is tender, about 30-40 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Empanadillas (Turnovers)
Savor the flaky pastry and savory fillings of these traditional Latin American treats, perfect for snacks or light meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (choose one):
+ Beef and onion mixture
+ Shredded chicken with tomato and spices
+ Melted cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add warm water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
4. Divide dough in half and roll out each portion to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Place chosen filling on one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold other half over filling and press edges to seal.
7. Cook empanadillas in a skillet with oil or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tembleque (Coconut Pudding)
Rich and creamy Tembleque is a beloved Puerto Rican dessert, made with coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and a touch of lime. This comforting pudding is perfect for warm weather or any time you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to chill and set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of unsweetened shredded coconut and a lime wedge if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes chilling time)
Flan de Queso (Cheese Flan)
Flan de Queso is a rich and creamy dessert that combines the sweetness of caramelized sugar with the savory flavor of melted cheese. This unique treat is perfect for those who love sweet and savory combinations.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and milk. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add salt and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour mixture into 6 ramekins or small cups.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coquito (Coconut Eggnog)
This Coquito recipe is a twist on traditional eggnog, infused with the rich flavor of coconut milk and a hint of spice. Perfect for the holiday season, this creamy drink will become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Whipped cream and nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the warm coconut mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
5. Add cinnamon and salt; whisk until combined.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream and nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is chilled in the refrigerator.
Enjoy your creamy Coquito!
Pastelón (Plantain Lasagna)
A twist on traditional lasagna, Pastelón is a popular Puerto Rican dish that combines sweet plantains with savory beef and cheese. This recipe yields a flavorful and satisfying casserole perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe plantains
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice plantains into 1-inch rounds, then fry in hot oil until golden brown.
3. Brown ground beef with onion and garlic, then add tomato sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked plantains, meat mixture, and cheese. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer the mixture, starting with plantains, then meat mixture, and finally cheese.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rellenos de Papa (Stuffed Potato Balls)
A classic Mexican dish, Rellenos de Papa is a delightful treat that combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the savory flavors of chorizo and cheese. This recipe yields a crispy exterior giving way to a creamy, meaty filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes
– 1 pound chorizo, casings removed
– 1/2 cup grated queso fresco or Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and mash.
2. In a pan, cook the chorizo over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
3. Combine the mashed potatoes, cooked chorizo, cheese, and cilantro in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the potato mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
5. Fry the potato balls in hot oil (about 350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain the fried potato balls on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bistec Encebollado (Steak and Onions)
A classic Latin American dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying, Bistec Encebollado is a simple yet impressive recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
6. Serve the sliced steak with the caramelized onions and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine with these 18 mouthwatering recipes. From classic dishes like Arroz con Gandules (rice and pigeon peas) and Pernil (roast pork shoulder) to sweet treats like Tembleque (coconut pudding) and Flan de Queso (cheese flan), there’s something for every occasion. Explore the island’s culinary traditions with recipes like Mofongo, a hearty dish made from mashed plantains and pork cracklings, or try your hand at Bacalaitos (salt cod fritters) and Alcapurrias, crispy fried pastries filled with beef or chicken. These authentic Puerto Rican recipes are sure to delight.