Every February 27th, Dominicans around the world honor their independence — not just with flags and parades, but with food that tells the story of their rich cultural heritage. According to Chef Danny Peñalo, a respected Dominican culinary ambassador and Executive Chef at Yarumba Dominican Restaurant in Miami, these dishes are more than recipes — they are living traditions.
With appearances and culinary collaborations throughout South Florida, including areas like Broward County, Chef Danny continues to share the soul of Dominican cuisine with diverse audiences.
1. Morir Soñando – A Dominican Classic
One of the most iconic beverages in Dominican culture, Morir Soñando blends orange juice, evaporated milk, sugar, and ice. The name, which translates to “to die dreaming,” captures the drink’s dreamy texture and flavor — a creamy citrus refreshment perfect for family celebrations.
2. Sancocho – The National Stew
Sancocho is a hearty stew that represents Dominican unity and tradition. Made with various meats — beef, pork, chicken, and more — and root vegetables like yuca, yautía, and plantains, it’s the ultimate comfort dish. Chef Danny’s signature 4-meat sancocho is one of the most requested dishes at Yarumba and a favorite at Dominican community gatherings throughout South Florida.
3. Dominican Picadera – A Social Staple
Picadera is a flavorful medley of small bites: fried salami, queso frito, longaniza, and tostones. Perfect for gatherings, this dish reflects the social essence of Dominican culture — rooted in Spanish and African influences — and is often featured at public events where Chef Danny Peñalo has represented the Dominican community, including those in Broward County.
4. Mangú – The Taste of Home
Made from mashed green plantains, Mangú is the base for “Los Tres Golpes” — a combination of fried cheese, Dominican salami, and eggs. With African roots, mangú is a nostalgic dish for Dominicans abroad and is frequently served during cultural festivals, community breakfasts, and holiday brunches.
5. Mofongo – A Caribbean Fusion
Although its origins trace back to Puerto Rico, mofongo has become a Dominican favorite. Chef Danny elevates this classic with bold Dominican touches — garlic, pork cracklings, shrimp, or longaniza — making it a popular option on Yarumba’s menu and a standout dish at cultural events across Miami-Dade and Broward.
6. Los Tres Golpes – The Dominican Breakfast Hit
Known as “The Three Hits,” this breakfast trio — fried cheese, salami, and eggs — served with mangú, is beloved throughout the Dominican diaspora. It’s hearty, flavorful, and embodies the Dominican approach to comfort food, especially popular during national holidays like Independence Day.
7. La Bandera – The Dominican Flag on a Plate
La Bandera Dominicana, or “The Dominican Flag,” is the most iconic everyday meal in the Dominican Republic. Made with white rice, stewed beans, and meat — often accompanied by avocado and fried plantains — it’s a celebration of culture on a plate. Chef Danny often describes it as “the heart of our food identity.”
Dominican Culture Beyond the Plate
As part of his mission to elevate Dominican cuisine, Chef Danny Peñalo regularly appears at cultural events across South Florida, including Broward County, where he has cooked, spoken, and connected with a growing community that values Dominican tradition.
Through his presence at festivals, culinary demonstrations, and media interviews, Chef Danny helps spread Dominican pride far beyond the kitchen — one plate at a time.
If you’re in South Florida, visit Yarumba Dominican Restaurant in Miami for a true taste of Dominican heritage, or follow Chef Danny on Instagram to discover his latest culinary projects.