Growing up in a “barrio”, a modest neighborhood in the Dominican Republic, Christmas was always the most magical time of the year. And nothing was more emblematic of Christmas than Puerco Asado of “Puerco Asao” in good Dominican parlance.

As a child, I would wake up the morning of Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) to the sound of lively holiday merengue music playing from the neighbors’ houses. The air filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. My siblings and I would rush to the living room, where a modest but beautifully decorated Christmas tree stood, ready for gifts that would hopefully be there the following morning. The family meal took central stage as my mother and aunts would be in the kitchen, preparing traditional side dishes like Moro de Guandules (rice with pigeon peas), Ensalada Rusa (potato salad), and Maduros (sweet ripe plantains). The kitchen was a whirlwind of activity, with pots bubbling on the stove and the rhythmic chopping of vegetables on the cutting board. But, as always, the center piece of the meal was Puerco Asao and, in our barrio, the preparation of this roasted pig was a communal affair.

Just Like in “El Barrio”- Mecho’s Catering Brings Authentic Flavor to Your Catering Event

Early in the morning, the street vendors would set up their makeshift roasting pits along the sidewalks. The sight of whole pigs slowly turning on spits over open flames was a spectacle that drew everyone out of their homes.

I remember the vendors, skilled in their craft, meticulously basting the pigs with a marinade of garlic, oregano, and sour orange juice. The aroma was intoxicating, a mouth-watering blend of smoky and savory scents that filled the air and made our stomachs rumble with anticipation.

A Dish Inspired by Family – And a Favorite to Many of Our Catering Patrons.

My father and uncles would be outside, setting up tables and chairs in the backyard, ready to accommodate the extended family and friends who would join us for the feast. The children, including myself, were given the important task of decorating the tables with colorful tablecloths and festive centerpieces.

By midday, the roasted pigs were ready, their skins crispy and golden brown. The vendors would expertly carve the meat, serving generous portions to eager customers. My father would bring home our portion, carefully wrapped in foil to keep it warm.

As we gathered around the table, the centerpiece was always the Poerco Asao, surrounded by an array of delicious side dishes. The first bite was always the best—tender, juicy pork with a perfect balance of flavors from the marinade and the smoky roasting process. The crispy skin, or “cuerito” was a prized delicacy that everyone fought over.

The meal was a time of laughter, storytelling, and togetherness. We would share stories from the past year, toast to our health and happiness, and enjoy the company of loved ones. The day would stretch into the evening, with music, dancing, and more food. A Tradition That Lives On.

Why You Should Choose Mecho’s Catering Service for Your Next Catered event in the DMV area.  

Mecho’s Dominican Kitchen proudly offers puerco asao (roasted pig) as a highlight of their catering service manu, bringing the authentic flavors of the Dominican Republic to your events. This succulent, slow-roasted pork, marinated with traditional spices and cooked to perfection, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Guests rave about the tender, juicy meat and the crispy, flavorful skin, making it the star of any gathering. Whether it’s a festive holiday celebration or a special occasion, Mecho’s Dominican Kitchen ensures that their puerco asao, and all of our dishes,  leaves a lasting impression, delighting your guests with every bite.

Ask About our Catering Service or Place an order at https://mechoskitchen.com/catering  

You can also Call Us at: (202) 629-4847