If you’re looking to add some Latino flavor to the comfort of your own home, consider making a Cuban “boliche.” A staple in Cuban cuisine, boliche can be enjoyed as an entree or as a traditional sandwich. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced cook, this guide will help you create the perfect boliche in your kitchen.
What is Cuban Bowling?
Boliche, or “bowling” in Cuban slang, is a traditional Cuban dish that features a flavorful beef roast. The beef is typically marinated with garlic, onions, and other seasonings before being slow cooked to tender perfection. Boliche is often served with a tomato-based sauce and is commonly enjoyed with a side of white rice and black beans.
Ingredients for Boliche
Making boliche requires minimal ingredients and tools. You will need:
- 1 beef eye of round roast (3-4 lbs)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 cup of dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 can (14 oz) of tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
Steps to Make Boliche
Once you have gathered all of the required ingredients and the necessary tools to make boliche, follow these simple steps for the perfect dish:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and arrange the rack on the lower third.
Prepare the Meat
Make a few 1-inch deep cuts in the top and bottom of the meat to help the marinade penetrate. Next, pour the white wine over the beef and allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the garlic, onions, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, paprika, and olive oil. Mix well to create a flavorful mass.
Properly Season the Meat
Remove the beef from the marinade and thoroughly rub the marinade over the entire roast. Be sure to massage the marinade into the cuts you made previously to enhance the flavor.
Cook the Boliche
Place the beef roast in a large baking pan and cover with foil. Cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140 degrees. Once the meat reaches your desired temperature, remove the foil and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the beef is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Prepare the Sauce
While the beef is cooking, prepare the sauce by combining the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes, or until the sauce is thick and bubbly.
Serve the Boliche
Once the beef has finished cooking, allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve the boliche with your desired side dishes, such as white rice and black beans, and top with the prepared sauce.
Tips for the Perfect Cuban Boliche
The key to making the perfect Cuban boliche is to make sure the beef is properly cooked and the marinade is evenly distributed. Additionally, be sure to take your time when preparing the marinade and sauce to ensure maximum flavor. Feel free to customize the flavor of your boliche by adding additional ingredients, such as peppers or oregano.
Conclusion
Making a Cuban boliche is a great way to add some Latino flavor to your home-cooked meals. This recipe is simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for beginners and experienced cooks. By following these steps and tips, you can make the perfect Cuban boliche in the comfort of your own home.
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