Ropa Vieja is a traditional Cuban dish that gets its name from its appearance – the shredded meat looks like “old torn clothes.” The recipe is a savory stew made from beef, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, all simmered in a rich and spicy sauce. It’s a comforting dish, perfect for family dinners or to impress your guests at a dinner party. We will show you how to prepare this delicious dish at home in a simple and easy way.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need to make your own Cuban Ropa Vieja:
- 1 kg of beef for shredding (like flank or brisket)
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (400g)
- 1 tablespoon of cumin
- 1 tablespoon of oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Preparation
Follow these steps to prepare your Ropa Vieja:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot. Add the beef and brown it on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Return the beef to the pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 hours, until the beef is tender and easy to shred.
- Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Meanwhile, continue to cook the sauce until it thickens. Shred the beef and return it to the pot. Mix well to coat the beef evenly with the sauce.
How to Enjoy Ropa Vieja
Ropa Vieja is usually served with white rice or black beans. You can also accompany it with slices of avocado or fried plantains for a complete meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of fresh cilantro on top for a delicious finishing touch!
And there you go, you now have a delicious homemade Cuban Ropa Vieja! We hope you enjoy this dish as much as we do.
Conclusion
Making your own Ropa Vieja at home is an incredibly rewarding culinary experience. This savory and comforting dish is sure to delight your taste buds and those of your guests. So why not try making it yourself? You will be surprised at how easy and delicious it is.
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