World Flavors Cookbook

Ropa Vieja

The original ropa vieja — Canarian shredded beef stew with chickpeas, tomatoes, and saffron. The ancestor of the Cuban version.

Cuisine: Spain

Ingredients

• 600g leftover cocido beef, shredded (or beef brisket)
• 400g cooked chickpeas
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• Pinch of saffron
• Olive oil, salt

Instructions

1. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
2. Add tomatoes and cook 10 minutes.
3. Add paprika and saffron. Stir briefly.
4. Add shredded beef and chickpeas. Mix well.
5. Simmer 20 minutes until flavors meld.
6. Serve with bread or rice.