Cuban cuisine is rich and varied, blending elements of Spanish, African, and Caribbean traditions. One of the most beloved Cuban dishes is Rabo Encendido, a spicy stew made from oxtail. The word “rabo” means “tail” in Spanish, and “encendido” means “lit up” or “on fire”. This hearty, flavorful dish is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious traditional Cuban meal.
Ingredients for Rabo Encendido
2 lb (1 kg) of oxtail, cut into pieces
1 large onion, finely chopped
4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
4-6 plum tomatoes, diced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions to Make Rabo Encendido
Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add the oxtail pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, red wine, cumin, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the oxtail is tender.
Step 4: Once the oxtail is tender, use a slotted spoon to remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
Step 5: Increase the heat and let the sauce cook uncovered for 5-10 minutes, until it has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Add the oxtail back to the pot and stir until it is heated through.
Serving Rabo Encendido
Rabo Encendido is typically served with white rice, black beans, and fried plantains or cassava. You can also serve it with a side of avocado slices, which helps to balance out the spiciness of the stew.
Variations of Rabo Encendido
If you prefer a less spicy version of Rabo Encendido, you can omit the cayenne pepper from the recipe. You can also add other herbs and spices, such as bay leaves, tropical basil, or cilantro, for even more flavor. Some people also like to add diced carrots and potatoes to the stew to add more color and texture.
Rabo Encendido is a traditional, hearty, and flavorful Cuban dish that everyone will enjoy. With its spicy, rich flavors, it is the ideal dish for anyone looking to experience the cuisine of this diverse Caribbean island. Give this Cuban recipe a try and experience the delicious flavor of Rabo Encendido for yourself!
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