Best 3 Ricks Caribbean Ropa Vieja Recipes
**Discover the Exquisite Flavors of Ropa Vieja: A Culinary Journey Through Cuban Cuisine**
Embark on a tantalizing culinary adventure as we delve into the delectable world of Ropa Vieja, a traditional Cuban dish that embodies the vibrant spirit and rich heritage of the Caribbean. This classic shredded beef stew, meaning "old clothes" in Spanish, is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring tender and succulent beef, a medley of aromatic spices, and a vibrant tomato-based sauce. Join us as we present two variations of this beloved dish: a classic Ropa Vieja recipe that stays true to its Cuban roots and a contemporary adaptation infused with a hint of Mexican flair. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, our detailed recipes will guide you effortlessly through the process, ensuring a flavorful and memorable dining experience. Prepare to savor the essence of Cuban cuisine as you recreate this iconic dish in your own kitchen.
ROPA VIEJA
Flank steak braised with vegetables and aromatics until it shreds into strands is the national dish of Cuba, though the cooking process is popular throughout Central America and the Caribbean. In Cuba, it's called ropa vieja, which translates to old clothes, a reference to the beef's tattered appearance. In Venezuela and Colombia, you'd call it carne desmechada. This version starts with a sautéed base of peppers and onions, which is further enhanced with olives, capers, raisins and tomatoes. The flavorful mixture works equally well with flank steak, pork butt or even chicken thighs. Serve it with cooked black beans and rice.
Provided by J. Kenji López-Alt
Categories dinner, meat, one pot, main course
Time 3h
Yield 6 cups (4 servings)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Season beef or pork with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over high until lightly smoking. Working in batches as needed, cook the meat in a single layer, turning occasionally, until well browned on all sides, about 8 minutes per batch, reducing heat as necessary if the oil smokes excessively.
- Add braised peppers and onions, tomatoes, olives, raisins, capers and chicken stock. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce to a bare simmer, cover with the lid slightly cracked, and cook, stirring occasionally and scraping any crust that has formed at the edges of the pan back into the liquid, until meat is completely tender and shreds easily with two forks, about 2 1/2 hours. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Shred meat with two forks, and serve immediately with white rice, black beans and hearty greens. Ropa vieja can also be shredded, allowed to cool, and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. It will improve in texture and flavor with time.
RICK'S CARIBBEAN ROPA VIEJA
A touch of sweetness from the Caribbean gives a new flair to the standard Ropa Vieja (Cuban Meat Stew). Serve with rice.
Provided by PEWTERPIRATE
Categories Bean and Pea Soups
Time 1h
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the onion and mushrooms until lightly browned. Place flank steak in the skillet, and brown on all sides. Pour in the wine. Reduce heat to low, and continue cooking 30 minutes, or until meat is very tender. Remove meat, shred, and return to skillet.
- Pour coconut milk into the skillet. Mix in sour cream, coconut flakes, brown sugar, allspice, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 571.3 calories, Carbohydrate 19.4 g, Cholesterol 57.3 mg, Fat 45.6 g, Fiber 5.9 g, Protein 17.9 g, SaturatedFat 34.3 g, Sodium 396.9 mg, Sugar 10.1 g
RICK'S CARIBBEAN ROPA VIEJA
A touch of sweetness from the Caribbean gives a new flair to the standard Ropa Vieja (Cuban Meat Stew). Serve with rice.
Provided by PEWTERPIRATE
Categories Bean and Pea Soups
Time 1h
Yield 8
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, and cook the onion and mushrooms until lightly browned. Place flank steak in the skillet, and brown on all sides. Pour in the wine. Reduce heat to low, and continue cooking 30 minutes, or until meat is very tender. Remove meat, shred, and return to skillet.
- Pour coconut milk into the skillet. Mix in sour cream, coconut flakes, brown sugar, allspice, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 571.3 calories, Carbohydrate 19.4 g, Cholesterol 57.3 mg, Fat 45.6 g, Fiber 5.9 g, Protein 17.9 g, SaturatedFat 34.3 g, Sodium 396.9 mg, Sugar 10.1 g
Tips:
- Use quality beef: Opt for a well-marbled chuck roast or brisket to ensure tender and flavorful ropa vieja.
- Simmer slowly: Allow the beef to simmer gently over low heat for several hours to achieve fall-apart tenderness and allow the flavors to meld.
- Shred the beef: Once the beef is cooked, shred it using two forks or a meat shredder to create tender, bite-sized pieces.
- Enhance the flavor: Add a flavorful sofrito base made with onions, bell peppers, garlic, and spices to infuse the beef with a rich and aromatic taste.
- Adjust the spiciness: Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of chili peppers or hot sauce used in the recipe.
- Use ripe tomatoes: Incorporate ripe, juicy tomatoes to provide a vibrant flavor and acidity to balance the richness of the beef.
- Serve with traditional sides: Pair ropa vieja with classic Cuban accompaniments such as white rice, black beans, fried plantains, or a refreshing salad for a complete and authentic meal.
Conclusion:
Ropa vieja is a versatile and delicious Cuban dish that embodies the flavors and traditions of the Caribbean. With its tender shredded beef, flavorful sauce, and customizable spice level, it's a dish that's sure to satisfy a wide range of palates. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply seeking a comforting and flavorful meal, this recipe provides a detailed guide to creating an authentic ropa vieja experience in your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to indulge in the vibrant flavors of Cuba!
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