By: Franchesca Livraghi | @breakthrukitchen

There’s something special about dishes that mix flavors from different cultures and become classics, like Chofán did in the Dominican Republic. This version of fried rice starts with the classic technique of Chinese takeout-style fried rice and adds a Dominican twist with a touch of Sazón, creating something absolutely irresistible.

And like any recipe, everyone’s Chofán tastes a little different because we all add our own twist. But that’s really what makes it so special, it’s a dish you can get creative with and make your own.

Easy way to turn leftover rice into something new

I always have extra arroz blanco in the fridge during the week. Sometimes I love eating it plain with some habichuelas guisadas, but other times I like to switch it up and turn it into something totally new.

Chofán is my go-to when I have extra veggies in the fridge and want something delicious and simple to make. Tossing leftover rice with chicken, steak, or shrimp, fresh veggies like cabbage, carrots, and scallions, and bold Loisa seasonings like Organic Adobo and Sazón makes a flavorful and satisfying meal.

If you have leftover beans too, arroz mamposteao is another great option for a comforting and hearty dish. It’s pretty much fried rice with habichuelas, so good!

A trusted weeknight dinner recipe

This Chofán is my go-to for weeknight dinners. It’s super easy, packed with flavor, and the perfect way to use up leftover rice and veggies. It comes together in no time and is perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without the hassle.

Chofán vs Chinese Fried Rice

Dominican Chofán and Chinese fried rice share a lot of similarities since they’re both stir-fried rice dishes mixed with vegetables, meat, and scrambled egg. There’s no real difference in technique; the real differences are in the flavors and ingredients.

Chofán is made with seasonings you’ll always find in a Dominican kitchen, like Loisa’s Organic Adobo, Sazón, and lime, along with vegetables like cabbage and cubanelle peppers that are staples in Dominican cuisine. It also brings in some Chinese touches, like scallions, carrots, and soy sauce, while traditional fried rice uses ingredients like sesame oil, ginger, and oyster sauce. Both are packed with flavor but have their own unique tastes.

What makes Chofán Dominican?

What makes Chofán Dominican is how we took the idea of Chinese fried rice and gave it our own twist. Just like Peru has chaufa, we add the flavors that make it ours, turning it into Dominican fried rice. It’s the perfect blend of cultures, packed with all the flavors we know and love!

Lime and Loisa’s Recaito give this recipe fresh flavor

Lime and Loisa’s Recaito are the secret to the fresh, vibrant flavor in this recipe. The lime adds some tangy brightness that balances the flavors of the soy sauce, and Loisa’s Recaito is used to give the chicken a delicious, fresh taste.

Loisa’s Recaito has such a fresh, herby flavor that it works great with chicken, but it’s just as delicious with steak, shrimp, or whatever protein you’re in the mood for. It’s made with cilantro, culantro (or recao), oregano, and lots of garlic, so it’s the perfect marinade for all kinds of protein.