Dominican Pollo Guisado (Braised Chicken)

Here’s a flavorful and traditional Dominican Pollo Guisado recipe, a savory braised chicken dish full of Caribbean spices and vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ lbs chicken (cut into pieces, bone-in preferred)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar or lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Cooking:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion (sliced)
• 1 bell pepper (sliced)
• 2 tomatoes (diced)
• 2-3 sprigs fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 1 small carrot (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1 small potato (peeled and cubed, optional)
• Olives or capers (optional for added flavor)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • Clean the chicken pieces by rubbing them with vinegar or lime juice, then rinse with cold water and pat dry.
   • In a bowl, season the chicken with olive oil, oregano, cumin, minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the marinated chicken pieces and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the onions, bell peppers, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar (if using) to balance the acidity.
4. Simmer the Chicken:
   • Return the chicken to the pot, and add the chicken broth or water. Stir in the bay leaf and cilantro. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
   • Add the potatoes (if using) and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, and the potatoes are soft.
5. Finishing Touches:
   • Add olives or capers if desired for extra flavor, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Cook uncovered for a few minutes to let the sauce thicken.
6. Serve:
   • Serve your Pollo Guisado with white rice, beans, and fried plantains for a true Dominican experience.

Enjoy this hearty, aromatic dish filled with the flavors of the Dominican Republic!