RecipesCubaRopa Vieja de Mariscos con Arroz Moro

Ropa Vieja de Mariscos con Arroz Moro

A vibrant seafood twist on the classic Ropa Vieja, this dish features tender shredded seafood (shrimp, calamari, mussels) simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with peppers and onions, served alongside flavorful Arroz Moro (rice and beans cooked together).

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 15 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Ropa Vieja de Mariscos con Arroz Moro - Cuba traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1 lb Shrimp(peeled and deveined)
  • 1 lb Calamari rings
  • 1 lb Mussels(cleaned)
  • 3 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 large Onion(finely chopped)
  • 1 large Green bell pepper(finely chopped)
  • 1 large Red bell pepper(finely chopped)
  • 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 28 oz Crushed tomatoes(can)
  • 1/2 cup White wine
  • 1 tsp Bay leaf
  • 1 tsp Cumin
  • 1 tsp Oregano
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
  • 4 cups Cooked white rice
  • 15 oz Black beans(rinsed and drained)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Arroz Moro: In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add half the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the rinsed black beans and cooked white rice. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Keep warm.

    ⏱️ 12 minutes
  2. 2

    For the Ropa Vieja de Mariscos, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

    💡 Tip: Ensure skillet is hot before adding seafood.
  3. 3

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

    ⏱️ 7 minutes
  4. 4

    Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

    ⏱️ 1 minute
    💡 Tip: Do not burn the garlic.
  5. 5

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, white wine, bay leaf, cumin, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.

    💡 Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  6. 6

    Add the shrimp and calamari rings to the simmering sauce. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque and the calamari is tender.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
    💡 Tip: Avoid overcooking the seafood.
  7. 7

    Add the cleaned mussels to the skillet. Cover and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the mussels have opened. Discard any mussels that do not open.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
  8. 8

    Season the seafood mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf.

    💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
  9. 9

    Serve the Ropa Vieja de Mariscos hot over the prepared Arroz Moro. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.

    💡 Tip: A squeeze of lime is a nice addition.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use a mix of your favorite seafood for variety.
  • Adjust the amount of white wine to your preference.
  • Ensure all seafood is cooked through but not overcooked to maintain tenderness.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
  • Incorporate other vegetables like peas or corn into the Arroz Moro.
  • Serve with a side of tostones (fried plantains).

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