Ropa Vieja is the most iconic Cuban dish, a hearty stew of shredded beef in tomato and pepper sauce. Its evocative name hides a delicious sofrito traditionally served with white rice and black beans.
Ingredients
Step-by-step preparation
In a large pot with boiling broth, place the beef brisket with onion and carrot. Cook 45-50 minutes until very tender. Remove and let cool.
Once cool, shred the beef with two forks into fine strands. Strain the broth and reserve 1 cup.
Heat oil in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add the red peppers cut into strips and cook 3 minutes.
Stir in the crushed or diced tomatoes, cumin and a pinch of salt. Let reduce 5 minutes over medium heat.
Pour the shredded beef into the sauce along with 1 cup of reserved broth. Simmer 10-15 minutes stirring occasionally until thickened.
Taste and adjust salt, pepper and cumin to your liking. Serve hot over white rice with black beans.