The Best Homemade Sancocho Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

You’ll love this homemade sancocho recipe because it’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. It brings warmth to any table with its rich broth and tender ingredients.

• Comfort in a bowl – The slow-cooked broth and tender meat create a satisfying meal that feels like a hug.
• Easy to customize – Swap veggies or meats based on what you have, making it a flexible dish for any occasion.
• Big-batch friendly – It tastes even better the next day, so you can enjoy leftovers without extra effort.

Recipe

Sancocho is a traditional Latin American stew known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. This homemade version brings together tender meat, root vegetables, and aromatic herbs for a comforting dish perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken (bone-in)
• 1 lb beef stew meat
• 2 green plantains, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 yellow plantains, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 ears of corn, cut into thirds
• 1 yam, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 yucca, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 8 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, sautéing until softened.
2. Add chicken and beef to the pot, browning on all sides. Season with cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in tomato sauce and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Add plantains, corn, yam, yucca, and cilantro to the pot. Simmer for another 45 minutes or until all ingredients are tender.
5. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.

Notes

For a thicker stew, mash some of the yam or yucca before serving. You can also substitute pork or other meats based on preference.

Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife

Time

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Cuisine

Latin American

Serving

Serves 6-8

Nutrition

Sancocho is a hearty stew packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving:

What To Serve With It

I always pair my homemade sancocho with traditional sides, like fluffy white rice or sliced avocado, to keep the meal authentic. For a fun twist, I’ll serve it with crispy tostones or a fresh green salad for added texture. Trust me, these pairings make the dish even more satisfying and complete.

Traditional Side Dishes

When you’ve got a hearty bowl of sancocho simmering on the stove, it’s worth thinking about the sides that’ll round out your meal. I love serving it with white rice—it soaks up the broth perfectly. Avocado slices add creaminess, while a side of fried plantains brings a sweet, crispy touch. Don’t forget warm arepas or cornbread for dipping; they’re comforting and satisfying. A fresh salad, like tomato and onion with lime, adds brightness. These traditional sides complement the rich flavors of sancocho, making every bite feel complete. It’s all about balance and savoring every spoonful!

Perfect Pairing Ideas

Though sancocho is a meal all on its own, adding the right pairings can take it from delicious to unforgettable. I love serving it with a side of fluffy white rice, which soaks up the rich broth perfectly. A crisp avocado salad adds a fresh contrast, while fried plantains bring a sweet, caramelized crunch. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick! For something heartier, try arepas or crusty bread to mop up every last drop. And if you’re feeling fancy, a cold beer or tropical juice balances the warmth of the stew. Trust me, these combos are game-changers!

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younes

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