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Delicious Cuban Ajiaco

Delicious Cuban Ajiaco: A Hearty Stew You’ll Love to Share

Delicious Cuban Ajiaco captures the essence of Cuban hospitality with rich flavors for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meats
  • 1 pound Pork Shoulder Juicy and tender cut that brings flavor to the stew.
  • 1 pound Beef Stew Meat Adds heartiness and richness, making the stew substantial.
  • 1 link Chorizo Sausage Introduces a smoky kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Potatoes Hearty chunks that absorb flavors, providing body to the dish.
  • 1 cup Corn Adds sweetness and a pop of color, increasing visual appeal.
  • 1 medium Green Plantain Offers unique texture and slight sweetness when cooked.
  • 1 cup Yellow Yam Contributes creaminess and subtle earthiness to the stew.
  • 1 cup Cassava Provides a chewy texture ideal for stews.
  • 1 medium Onion Base of flavor when sautéed, browning beautifully.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Infuses the dish with aromatic essence, enhancing overall fragrance.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Adds mild sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 cup Tomatoes Brightens the stew with acidity, balancing richness.
For the Broth and Seasoning
  • 6 cups Beef Broth Enriches the stew with savory undertones; homemade is ideal for flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing vegetables, enhancing richness.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Imparts depth and a fragrant note.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Adds warm, earthy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Contributes herbaceous tones that brighten the stew.
  • to taste Salt Essential for boosting overall flavor.
  • to taste Pepper Essential for boosting overall flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons White Vinegar Brightens the dish, balancing the meat's richness.
For Garnishing
  • Fresh Cilantro Garnish for a fresh, herbaceous finish.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 4 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 3-5 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
  2. Introduce 1 pound of cubed pork shoulder, 1 pound of beef stew meat, and 1 sliced chorizo sausage into the pot. Cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meats are nicely browned on all sides.
  3. Stir in 2 cups of diced potatoes, 1 cup of corn, 1 sliced green plantain, 1 cup of diced yellow yam, and 1 cup of chopped cassava. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  4. Pour in 6 cups of beef broth, then add 1 chopped red bell pepper, 1 cup of diced tomatoes, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 2 tablespoons of white vinegar. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over high heat, then reduce the temperature to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
  6. Once the meat is tender and vegetables are cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allow the stew to simmer for the full 1.5 to 2 hours to ensure the meat is tender and flavors meld beautifully.

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