RecipesCubaRopa Vieja de Cerdo

Ropa Vieja de Cerdo

A flavorful shredded pork dish, a variation of the classic Ropa Vieja, slow-cooked with vegetables and spices until tender.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time2 hours 50 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Ropa Vieja de Cerdo - Cuba traditional dish

🧂 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. 1

    Pat the pork shoulder dry and season generously with salt and pepper.

  2. 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. 3

    Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

    ⏱️ 7 minutes
  4. 4

    Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

    ⏱️ 1 minute
  5. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.

🔄 Variations

  • 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.

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