Chicharrones

Chicharrones

Easy as 1 – 2 – 3 – Chicharrones are made from fresh pork belly and a cut that doesn’t include much meat (the meat doesn’t really hold up well to the process, it’s the fat that counts here). You cannot compare store bought chicharrones to these. And they are so easy…. During our holiday food festivities, we are not really interested in huge quantities of chicharron but a taste. Cut off some pieces of fat with a sliver of meat from your pork and fry, fat down and then…

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Tools Behind Every Successful Local Kitchen

When we think about what makes a local kitchen successful, the first things that come to mind are usually the flavors, the recipes, and maybe the chef behind the dishes. But behind every amazing plate of mofongo or lechón asado, there’s a quiet network of tools, systems, and small decisions that keep everything running like clockwork. For many Puerto Rican kitchens—whether they’re nestled in urban neighborhoods or rolling on four wheels—it’s these lesser-known details that make the real difference. More Than Just the Stove Yes, the heart of every kitchen…

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Piragua – Puerto Rico Piragua

Piragua

Piragua A piragua is a Puerto Rican frozen treat, shaped like a pyramid, made of shaved ice and covered with fruit flavored syrup which are sold by vendors, known as piragüeros, in small colorful pushcarts. Piraguas are not only sold in Puerto Rico; they can be found in the United States in areas such as New York, where there is a large Puerto Rican community. In Puerto Rico the word piragua refers to a frozen treat made of shaved ice and covered with fruit flavored syrup. Unlike the American snow…

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Carne Guisada

Carne Guisada

Back to Recipes Carne Guisada is a beloved Puerto Rican comfort food that brings the flavors of the island to life in one hearty, satisfying dish. This traditional beef stew is known for its rich taste and tender texture, making it a staple in Puerto Rican households and a popular choice for family dinners and festive gatherings alike. At its heart, Carne Guisada features chunks of beef simmered slowly until they become melt-in-your-mouth tender. What sets it apart is the flavorful base made with sofrito—a vibrant blend of garlic, onions,…

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Pan de Agua Recipe

pan de agua

Back to Recipes Pan de Agua Recipe Pan de Agua (which translates to "water bread" in English) is a light, airy bread with a crisp crust and soft interior. It is popular in the Caribbean, especially in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. The bread's name comes from the method of baking it with steam, which gives it a distinctive crust. It's perfect for sandwiches or enjoyed simply with butter, cheese, or jam.

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Puerto Rican Coquito Recipe – Coquito de Puerto Rico

Coquito de Puerto Rico Everyone knows that a Latino Christmas celebration is full of cheer and delight, good music, delicious foods and original and traditional punches. The Christmas dinner — where family and friends come together to celebrate — is an ancient Roman tradition that began before the Christian era. It was not until 354 AD that the Roman Bishop Liberius officially declared that Christmas be celebrated on December 25th. There is no other time for you to really get a chance to savor all the delicious holiday punches very…

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The Best Puerto Rican Dishes for Poker Night

Some of their foods can elevate a poker night, whether you’re in San Juan, Caguas, or nowhere near Puerto Rico. From filling favorites to crowd-pleasing desserts, you should consider these before making the menu for your next poker night. Tostones: great for snacking You might not want to break your concentration from the poker table amid high-stakes hands. That’s why you need a table grazing plate, at which point you serve the Tostones. This straightforward recipe uses just non-ripened plantains—frying, seasoning, and putting them in a bowl to devour. It’s…

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Savoring Puerto Rican Sancocho: A Bowl of Tradition

puerto rican sancocho

Back to Recipes Sancocho is more than just a dish in Puerto Rico; it’s a cultural cornerstone that warms both the stomach and the soul. This hearty stew, often described as a celebration of flavors, reflects the island’s rich culinary heritage and diverse influences. Traditionally made with a variety of root vegetables, plantains, corn, and an assortment of meats, sancocho is a prime example of Puerto Rican comfort food. In Puerto Rican households, sancocho is often prepared for special occasions, family gatherings, or as a remedy for cold, rainy days.…

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Sofrito: The Heart and Soul of Puerto Rican Cuisine

Puerto Rican Sofrito

Back to Recipes Sofrito, a vibrant and aromatic seasoning, is the cornerstone of Puerto Rican cuisine. This flavorful blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices is the secret ingredient that elevates countless dishes, from hearty stews to simple rice and beans. At the heart of sofrito lies a harmonious blend of ingredients, each contributing its unique flavor and aroma. Typically, it includes a medley of onions, garlic, bell peppers, cilantro, and culantro. These ingredients are finely chopped and sautéed together until they become fragrant and slightly caramelized. The resulting mixture…

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Hot and Sizzling Fajitas

fajitas

The Magic of Fajita Seasoning No fajita recipe is complete without the perfect fajita seasoning. This blend typically includes chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of cayenne for heat. It infuses the dish with its signature smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavor. You can make your own blend at home or use a pre-made mix for convenience. But the best fajita seasoning you can buy is from Seasoned Pioneers. The Origins of Fajitas The term “fajita” comes from the Spanish word “faja,” meaning “strip”…

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