Molondrones Guisados
Molondrones Guisados Recipe - Dominican Republic Vegetarian Food
Introduction
Molondrones Guisados is a traditional dish from the Dominican Republic that features okra as the star ingredient. This flavorful and hearty stew is perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
History
Molondrones Guisados has been a staple in Dominican cuisine for generations. The dish is believed to have originated in the rural areas of the country, where okra was a readily available and affordable ingredient. Over time, the recipe has been passed down through families and has become a beloved comfort food in Dominican households.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of okra, diced into 1-inch pieces.
- 2 tbsp of oil
- 1 large green bell pepper, cut into small cubes
- 4 plum tomatoes, cut into small cubes
- 2 tbsp of tomato paste
- 1 large onion, sliced finely
- 0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
- 0.5 tbsp of mashed garlic
- 0.5 tsp of vinegar
- salt
How to prepare
- Heat one tablespoon of oil in a shallow pan.
- Sauté the onions, then add the pepper, tomatoes, garlic, and vinegar.
- Add the okra and black pepper.
- Allow it to simmer until the okra is tender, adding water as needed.
- Adjust the salt according to taste.
Variations
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp to the stew for a protein boost.
- Spice up the dish with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper for heat.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to dice the okra into 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Adding a splash of vinegar at the end of cooking helps to balance the flavors of the dish.
- Adjust the amount of salt to taste, as the saltiness of the dish can vary depending on personal preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Molondrones Guisados with a side of white rice for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to simmer the stew gently to allow the flavors to meld together.
Ingredient Substitutions
If okra is not available, you can substitute with green beans or zucchini.
Make Ahead Tips
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Molondrones Guisados in a colorful bowl for a visually appealing presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the stew gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
- One serving of Molondrones Guisados contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
- Okra is a low-carb vegetable, making this dish a great option for those following a low-carb diet.
- The tomatoes and bell peppers also contribute to the carbohydrate content of the dish.
Fats
- The oil used for sautéing adds a small amount of fat to the dish.
Proteins
- This dish is primarily vegetable-based and does not contain a significant amount of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Okra is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and magnesium.
- Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and potassium.
- Bell peppers are high in vitamin A and vitamin C.
Alergens
This dish is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.
Summary
Molondrones Guisados is a nutritious and low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Molondrones Guisados is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this stew is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Molondrones Guisados. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Puerto Rico. My grandmother, Abuela Maria, was known for her delicious cooking and she always had a way of making even the simplest of ingredients taste like a gourmet meal.
One day, I was helping Abuela Maria prepare dinner when she pulled out a bag of fresh molondrones from the market. Molondrones, also known as okra, were a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine and were often used in stews and soups. As she began to chop up the okra and sauté it with onions, garlic, and tomatoes, I watched in awe as the delicious aroma filled the kitchen.
"Abuela, what are you making?" I asked, eager to learn her secrets.
"Molondrones Guisados," she replied with a smile. "It's a traditional Puerto Rican dish that my mother used to make for me when I was a little girl. It's simple, but full of flavor."
I watched as Abuela Maria added some homemade sofrito, a blend of peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs, to the pot along with some chicken broth and a few bay leaves. She let the mixture simmer on the stove, stirring occasionally and adding a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
As the molondrones guisados cooked, the flavors melded together to create a rich and savory stew that filled the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. When it was finally ready, Abuela Maria served it over a bed of fluffy white rice and garnished it with fresh cilantro.
I took my first bite of the molondrones guisados and was immediately transported back to my childhood. The flavors were comforting and familiar, reminding me of lazy Sunday afternoons spent in the kitchen with Abuela Maria. I savored each mouthful, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented and experienced cook.
Over the years, I have made molondrones guisados countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat, or a squeeze of lime juice for a touch of citrus. No matter how I prepare it, the dish always evokes memories of my grandmother and the love and care she put into every meal she made.
I have shared the recipe for molondrones guisados with friends and family, passing down the tradition from one generation to the next. I have taught my own children how to make the dish, instilling in them a love and appreciation for the flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine.
As I look back on that day in the kitchen with Abuela Maria, I am grateful for the memories and the lessons she imparted to me. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my heritage and keep alive the traditions of my ancestors. And every time I make molondrones guisados, I am reminded of the love and passion that went into creating such a simple yet delicious dish.
Categories
| Dominican Recipes | Dominican Vegetarian | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Okra Recipes | Onion Recipes | Plum Tomato Recipes |