18 Spicy Latin Recipes Delicious

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Ready to turn up the heat in your kitchen? Our roundup of 18 Spicy Latin Recipes is here to add some fiery flair to your mealtime routine. From zesty tacos to soul-warming stews, these dishes promise a delicious adventure for your taste buds. Perfect for home cooks looking to spice things up, each recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and vibrant cultures. Let’s get cooking!

Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce

Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce

These Chicken Enchiladas with Green Sauce are a cozy, flavorful twist on a classic, perfect for spicing up your weeknight dinner routine.

Servings

8

enchiladas
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup diced green onions
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 8 (6-inch) corn tortillas
  • 2 cups green enchilada sauce
  • 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, sour cream, Monterey Jack cheese, cilantro, green onions, cumin, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  3. Warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds in the microwave to make them pliable. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto each tortilla, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  4. Pour the green enchilada sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, then sprinkle with queso fresco.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is lightly golden.

The creamy filling and tangy green sauce create a delightful contrast, while the queso fresco adds a fresh, crumbly texture that’s irresistible.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the chicken mixture before rolling.

Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri

Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri

These Beef Empanadas with Chimichurri are a flavorful twist on the classic, combining savory beef with a vibrant, herby sauce that’s sure to impress.

Servings

14

empanadas
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

33

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 package (14 oz) empanada dough discs
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned, about 8 minutes. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Place a spoonful of the beef mixture onto each empanada dough disc. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges with a fork to seal. Brush the tops with beaten egg.
  3. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the empanadas are golden and crispy.
  4. While the empanadas bake, make the chimichurri by combining the parsley, cilantro, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and crushed red pepper flakes in a bowl. Stir well.
  5. Serve the empanadas warm with the chimichurri sauce on the side.

The contrast between the crispy empanada and the fresh, zesty chimichurri creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.

Tip: For an extra crispy crust, try frying the empanadas in hot oil for 2-3 minutes per side instead of baking.

Pork Carnitas Tacos

Pork Carnitas Tacos

These Pork Carnitas Tacos are a game-changer for your taco night, offering a perfect balance of crispy edges and tender, juicy meat that’s packed with flavor.

Servings

8

tacos
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

135

minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 orange, juiced
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F. In a large bowl, toss the pork shoulder cubes with 1 tbsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 1 tbsp dried oregano, and 4 cloves minced garlic until evenly coated.
  2. Heat 1/4 cup vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork in batches, searing each side until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
  3. Once all pork is seared, return it to the pot and add the juice of 1 orange. Cover and transfer to the oven. Bake for 2 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender.
  4. Remove the pork from the oven and increase the temperature to 450°F. Use two forks to shred the pork directly in the pot, then return to the oven uncovered for 10 minutes to crisp up the edges.
  5. Warm 8 corn tortillas over a gas flame or in a dry skillet. Fill each tortilla with pork carnitas, then top with 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, 1/2 cup diced onion, and a squeeze of lime juice from the wedges.

The magic of these tacos lies in the dual-textured pork, achieved by slow-roasting then crisping under high heat for that irresistible crunch.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the cumin and oregano in a dry skillet before adding to the pork.

Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado

Shrimp Ceviche with Avocado

Nothing beats the fresh, zesty flavors of shrimp ceviche paired with creamy avocado—it’s a match made in heaven for a light, refreshing meal.

Servings

2

servings
Prep time

40

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 avocados, diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, lime juice, and lemon juice. Ensure the shrimp are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
  2. Drain the shrimp, reserving 2 tbsp of the citrus marinade. Return the shrimp to the bowl.
  3. Add the red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, salt, and black pepper to the shrimp. Gently toss to combine.
  4. Fold in the avocados and cucumber, being careful not to mash the avocados. Drizzle with the reserved marinade.
  5. Serve immediately or chill for up to an hour for flavors to meld. The contrast between the tangy shrimp and the buttery avocado makes every bite irresistible.

Tip: For an extra kick, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a dash of hot sauce before serving.

Black Bean Soup with Lime

Black Bean Soup with Lime

Warm up your evening with this zesty Black Bean Soup with Lime, a hearty dish that brings a refreshing twist to your dinner table.

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

21

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 4 cups cooked black beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in garlic, cumin, and chili powder, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add black beans and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches in a regular blender.
  5. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir in lime juice and cilantro.
  6. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.

The bright lime juice cuts through the richness of the black beans, creating a perfectly balanced flavor that’s both comforting and invigorating.

Tip: For a creamier texture, blend half the soup and leave the other half chunky.

Plantain Maduros with Crema

Plantain Maduros with Crema

Sweet, caramelized plantains meet cool, tangy crema in this irresistible side dish that’s a staple in Latin American cuisine but easy enough to whip up in any home kitchen.

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

8

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe plantains (yellow with black spots)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

Instructions

  1. Peel the plantains and slice them diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the plantain slices and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until deeply golden and caramelized.
  3. While the plantains cook, whisk together the sour cream, lime juice, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin in a small bowl to make the crema.
  4. Transfer the cooked plantains to a serving plate and drizzle generously with the crema.

The contrast between the sweet, crispy plantains and the creamy, zesty crema creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Perfect for jazzing up weeknight dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Tip: For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle the cooked plantains with a pinch of brown sugar before adding the crema.

Chile Rellenos with Queso Fresco

Chile Rellenos with Queso Fresco

Dive into the comforting embrace of Chile Rellenos with Queso Fresco, a dish that perfectly balances the smoky heat of poblano peppers with the creamy mildness of fresh cheese.

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 large poblano peppers
  • 1 cup queso fresco, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, separated
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Char the poblano peppers over an open flame or under a broiler until blackened all over. Place in a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the skin, make a slit down one side, and remove the seeds.
  2. Stuff each pepper with 1/4 cup of crumbled queso fresco, then close the slit with toothpicks.
  3. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Gently fold the yolks into the whites.
  4. Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Dredge each stuffed pepper in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  5. Serve with 1/2 cup of warm tomato sauce and garnish with 1/4 cup chopped cilantro.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the crispy egg batter and the melting queso fresco inside, a textural delight that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, try roasting the peppers on a grill before stuffing and frying.

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo

Bring a taste of Latin America to your kitchen with this comforting Arroz con Pollo, a one-pot wonder that’s as flavorful as it is easy to make.

Servings

5

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

32

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups long-grain white rice
  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add rice to the skillet, stirring to coat with the spices. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes.
  4. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in frozen peas, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork, sprinkle with cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

The smoky paprika and cumin infuse the rice with deep flavor, while the lime adds a bright finish that lifts the whole dish.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the rice in the skillet for a minute before adding the broth.

Pabellon Criollo

Pabellon Criollo

Dive into the heart of Venezuelan cuisine with this comforting Pabellon Criollo, a dish that beautifully marries shredded beef, black beans, and sweet plantains for a meal that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying.

Servings

4

portions
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

135

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs flank steak
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 cups cooked black beans
  • 2 ripe plantains, sliced diagonally
  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine the flank steak and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours until the meat is tender.
  2. Remove the steak from the pot, let it cool slightly, then shred it using two forks.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion, red bell pepper, and garlic, cooking for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the shredded beef, salt, black pepper, and ground cumin, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  4. In a separate skillet, heat the remaining 1/4 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
  5. Reheat the black beans in a small pot over low heat, stirring occasionally.
  6. To serve, arrange the shredded beef, black beans, and fried plantains on a plate. The contrast of the savory beef, creamy beans, and sweet plantains creates a symphony of flavors that’s uniquely Venezuelan.

Tip: For an extra touch of authenticity, serve with a side of white rice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Arepas with Cheese

Arepas with Cheese

Arepas with cheese are a delightful Venezuelan treat that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and oozing with melted cheese. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, they’re surprisingly simple to make at home.

Servings

8

portions
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 cups pre-cooked white cornmeal (masarepa)
  • 2 1/2 cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the pre-cooked white cornmeal, warm water, and 1 teaspoon salt until a soft dough forms. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
  2. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball, then flatten into a disc about 1/2 inch thick.
  3. Press a thumb into the center of each disc to create a small well. Fill each well with 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese, then seal the dough around the cheese, reshaping into a smooth disc.
  4. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Brush each arepa with melted unsalted butter and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Serve warm, watching as the cheese pulls apart in the most satisfying way. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the gooey cheese inside is what makes these arepas unforgettable.

Tip: For an extra crispy crust, you can finish the arepas in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes after pan-frying.

Mojo Marinated Pork

Mojo Marinated Pork

Get ready to infuse your kitchen with the vibrant flavors of Cuba with this Mojo Marinated Pork recipe—it’s a citrusy, garlicky delight that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Servings

2

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

12

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup fresh orange juice, 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, 6 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  2. Add the pork shoulder chunks to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
  3. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Remove the pork from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the pork is nicely charred and cooked through.
  4. Garnish with 1/4 cup fresh chopped cilantro before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the marinade—the citrus not only tenderizes the pork but also packs it with a brightness that’s perfectly balanced by the earthy spices.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, reserve a bit of the marinade before adding the pork and drizzle it over the cooked meat just before serving.

Tostones with Garlic Sauce

Tostones with Garlic Sauce

Craving a crispy, savory snack with a garlicky kick? These tostones with garlic sauce are a game-changer for your appetizer rotation.

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

12

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 green plantains
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 tsp salt, divided
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

  1. Peel the plantains and cut them into 1-inch thick slices.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the plantain slices for 3 minutes on each side, until lightly golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  3. Using the bottom of a glass, flatten each plantain slice to about 1/2-inch thickness.
  4. Return the flattened plantains to the skillet and fry for another 3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt while still hot.
  5. For the garlic sauce, combine the water, minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, and remaining 1/2 tsp salt in a small bowl. Whisk until well blended.
  6. Serve the tostones warm with the garlic sauce on the side for dipping.

The double-frying technique gives these tostones an irresistible crunch, while the garlic sauce adds a bright, tangy contrast.

Tip: For extra flavor, let the garlic sauce sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Peruvian Lomo Saltado

Peruvian Lomo Saltado

Bring the vibrant flavors of Peru to your kitchen with this easy-to-follow Lomo Saltado recipe, a stir-fry that’s bursting with color and taste.

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

9

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb beef sirloin, cut into thin strips
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • 1 large red onion, sliced into wedges
  • 2 large tomatoes, sliced into wedges
  • 1 yellow chili pepper, sliced (optional for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lb french fries, cooked according to package instructions

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef strips and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until just browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Stir in the red onion, tomatoes, and yellow chili pepper, cooking for 2 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
  3. Return the beef to the skillet. Add the soy sauce, red wine vinegar, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
  4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately over a bed of french fries.

The magic of Lomo Saltado lies in its perfect balance of savory beef, tangy vinegar, and sweet tomatoes, all served over crispy fries for a delightful contrast in textures.

Tip: For an authentic touch, serve with a side of white rice to soak up all the delicious juices.

Brazilian Feijoada

Brazilian Feijoada

Dive into the heart of Brazilian cuisine with this comforting Feijoada, a rich black bean stew that’s perfect for gathering around the table.

Servings

6

servings
Prep time

25

minutes
Cooking time

135

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb dried black beans, soaked overnight
  • 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into chunks
  • 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cumin
  • 6 cups water
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 lb chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add 1 large diced onion and 4 minced garlic cloves to the pot, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in 1 lb pork shoulder chunks and 1/2 lb sliced smoked sausage, browning the meat on all sides, about 5 minutes.
  4. Drain the soaked black beans and add them to the pot along with 6 cups water, 2 bay leaves, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp cumin. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the meat is cooked through.
  6. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Enjoy your Feijoada with white rice and orange slices for a traditional touch.

The slow simmering melds the smoky meats with the creamy beans, creating a depth of flavor that’s uniquely satisfying.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a piece of dried beef or a ham hock during the simmering process.

Argentinian Chimichurri Steak

Argentinian Chimichurri Steak

Bring the vibrant flavors of Argentina to your kitchen with this Chimichurri Steak recipe, perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor dinner.

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

12

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs flank steak
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup fresh parsley, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes to make the chimichurri sauce. Set aside.
  2. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. Grill the steak for about 6 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
  4. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
  5. Serve the sliced steak with the chimichurri sauce drizzled on top or on the side.

The bold, herby chimichurri sauce not only adds a burst of flavor but also tenderizes the steak, making every bite irresistibly juicy.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, marinate the steak in half of the chimichurri sauce for an hour before grilling.

Dominican Sancocho

Dominican Sancocho

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Dominican Sancocho, a stew that’s as vibrant as the island’s culture, blending meats and root vegetables in a savory broth.

Servings

6

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

75

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into chunks
  • 1 lb chicken thighs, bone-in
  • 1/2 lb pork ribs, cut into pieces
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 6 cups water
  • 2 green plantains, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 yuca (cassava), peeled and cut into chunks
  • 2 ears of corn, cut into thirds
  • 1/2 lb pumpkin, peeled and cubed

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the beef, chicken, and pork to the pot. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, and cumin. Brown the meats on all sides, about 10 minutes.
  3. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
  4. Add the plantains, yuca, corn, and pumpkin to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, until all the vegetables are tender and the meats are cooked through, about 30 more minutes.
  5. Adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Serve hot, ensuring each bowl has a mix of meats and vegetables.

This Sancocho stands out with its rich layers of flavor, achieved by simmering three types of meat with tropical root vegetables, creating a comforting and deeply satisfying stew.

Tip: For an authentic touch, serve with a side of white rice and a slice of avocado.

Colombian Ajiaco

Colombian Ajiaco

Dive into the heart of Colombian cuisine with this comforting Ajiaco, a hearty chicken and potato soup that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any day of the week.

Servings

3

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

60

minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
  • 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
  • 2 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and sliced
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 8 cups chicken broth

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
  2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
  3. Add the russet and Yukon Gold potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
  4. Stir in the frozen corn and cook for 5 minutes. Then, add the heavy cream, salt, and black pepper, stirring well to combine.
  5. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and avocado slices.

What sets this Ajiaco apart is the creamy texture from the heavy cream and the fresh pop of flavor from the avocado and cilantro garnish, making every spoonful a delight.

Tip: For an extra authentic touch, serve with a side of capers and a dollop of sour cream.

Mexican Mole Poblano

Mexican Mole Poblano

Dive into the rich, complex flavors of Mexico with this authentic Mole Poblano, a dish that beautifully balances sweetness, spice, and a hint of chocolate.

Servings

2

servings
Prep time

35

minutes
Cooking time

30

minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
  • 2 dried pasilla chiles, stemmed and seeded
  • 1/2 cup sesame seeds
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 ounce Mexican chocolate, chopped
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Toast the ancho and pasilla chiles for about 2 minutes per side until fragrant. Remove and soak in hot water for 20 minutes.
  2. In the same skillet, toast the sesame seeds and almonds until golden, about 3 minutes. Add the raisins, onion, and garlic, cooking until the onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Drain the chiles and add them to a blender along with the toasted sesame seeds, almonds, raisins, onion, garlic, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, coriander, and Mexican chocolate. Blend until smooth, gradually adding chicken broth to reach a sauce consistency.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Pour in the mole sauce and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt to taste.

The magic of Mole Poblano lies in its layers of flavor, from the smoky chiles to the subtle sweetness of chocolate, making it a unforgettable centerpiece for any dinner table.

Tip: For a smoother sauce, strain the mole through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.

Conclusion

We hope these 18 Spicy Latin Recipes have inspired your next kitchen adventure! Each dish is a vibrant celebration of flavors, perfect for spicing up your meal routine. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this roundup on Pinterest for fellow food lovers to enjoy. Happy cooking!

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