Ropa Vieja de Cerdo
A flavorful shredded pork dish, a variation of the classic Ropa Vieja, slow-cooked with vegetables and spices until tender.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 lbs Pork shoulder(bone-in or boneless)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 large Yellow onion(chopped)
- 1 large Green bell pepper(chopped)
- 1 large Red bell pepper(chopped)
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 15 oz Crushed tomatoes(can)
- 1/2 cup Dry white wine
- 2 cups Beef broth
- 2 Bay leaves
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/2 cup Olives(pitted, sliced)
- 1/4 cup Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the pork shoulder dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
- 2
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until browned. Remove pork and set aside.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 3
Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 4
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 5
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, white wine, beef broth, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. - 6
Return the pork shoulder to the pot. Ensure it's mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover and reduce heat to low.
⏱️ 2 hours - 7
Cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the pork is fork-tender and easily shreds. Check periodically and add more broth if needed.
⏱️ 2.5 hours💡 Tip: The liquid should be barely bubbling. - 8
Remove the pork from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Shred the pork using two forks.
💡 Tip: Allow the pork to cool slightly before shredding for easier handling. - 9
Skim any excess fat from the sauce in the pot. Stir in the sliced olives.
💡 Tip: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. - 10
Return the shredded pork to the pot and toss to coat with the sauce. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 11
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Typically served with white rice and black beans.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a deeper flavor, marinate the pork overnight in a mixture of citrus juice, garlic, and spices.
- ✓If you don't have white wine, you can substitute with more beef broth or a splash of vinegar.
- ✓Shredding the pork while it's still warm makes it easier.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
- Include diced potatoes or carrots in the stew for a heartier meal.
- Use a combination of pork and beef for a richer flavor.