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La Bandera, meaning "The Flag," is the national dish of the Dominican Republic. The name symbolizes the Dominican flag's colors, represented by the key components of this meal: rice (white), red beans, and meat, typically chicken or beef (red), with a side of green salad or fried plantains. This hearty, flavorful dish is a staple in Dominican households, offering a perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Rice:
2 cups (0.45 kg) white rice
4 cups (0.96 liters) water
1 tbsp (15 g) oil
1 tsp (5 g) salt
For the Beans:
1 lb (0.45 kg) red beans, cooked (or 2 cans, drained)
1 small onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp (2.5 g) oregano
1 tbsp (15 g) tomato paste
2 tbsp (30 ml) oil
2 cups (0.48 liters) water or broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Meat:
1 lb (0.45 kg) chicken or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 small onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1/2 tsp (2.5 g) oregano
2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
2 tbsp (30 ml) vinegar or lime juice
2 tbsp (30 ml) oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Side:
Fried plantains or green salad
Instructions
Prepare the Rice: In a medium pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil. Pour in the water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Cook the Beans: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté until softened. Stir in the oregano and tomato paste, and cook for another 2 minutes. Add the cooked beans, along with the water or broth, and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Prepare the Meat: Season the meat with oregano, salt, pepper, soy sauce, and vinegar or lime juice. In a separate skillet, heat the oil over medium heat and cook the meat until browned on all sides. Add the sliced onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and continue cooking until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
Assemble the Dish: On each plate, serve a portion of white rice, a serving of beans, and a portion of the cooked meat. If using, add a side of fried plantains or a green salad to complete the meal.
Serving
La Bandera is best enjoyed fresh and hot, with each component served side by side on a large plate. This dish is a complete, satisfying meal on its own but can be accompanied by a refreshing glass of jugo de chinola (passion fruit juice) to enhance the experience.
La Bandera is more than just a meal it's a culinary expression of Dominican culture. This dish’s simple yet flavorful components come together to create a satisfying and well-rounded meal that reflects the heart of Dominican cuisine. Whether you’re cooking it for a special occasion or a family dinner, La Bandera is sure to bring a taste of the Dominican Republic to your table.
