The traditional 'ropa vieja' is a recipe found in several Latin American countries with some variations, as it can be made with pork or beef. The secret to this recipe lies in the combination of ingredients to create a flavorful and colorful dish. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare a delicious pork ropa vieja that pairs perfectly with white rice or steamed potatoes.
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Wash the pork and place it in a pot. Cover it with water and add the half onion, garlic clove, salt, and pepper.
Cook the pork until it is fully cooked. Remove it from the heat and let it cool.
Once the pork has cooled, remove it from the broth and set the broth aside. Shred the pork into thin strips.
In a saucepan or skillet, sauté the chopped onion in oil until it becomes translucent.
Add the peeled and chopped tomatoes to the onion, cooking over low heat until the mixture turns a deeper red color.
Add the shredded pork to the tomato mixture. Pour in a bit of the reserved pork broth and cook for five minutes.
Add the capers, chopped olives, sliced pickled chilies, and chopped parsley. Continue cooking until the liquid has reduced by about half.
For extra flavor, you can marinate the pork with some lime juice and spices before cooking.
Serve the dish with white rice or steamed potatoes to balance the flavors.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add more pickled chilies or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I use beef instead of pork?
Yes, you can substitute pork with beef to make a traditional beef ropa vieja. The cooking process remains the same.
What side dishes pair well with pork ropa vieja?
White rice, steamed potatoes, or even fried plantains are excellent side dishes to serve with pork ropa vieja.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, pork ropa vieja can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors often deepen when left to sit for a few hours or overnight.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Is this dish spicy?
The dish has a mild spice level due to the pickled chilies. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer chilies.
