Pabellón Criollo is a traditional and iconic Venezuelan dish that represents the diverse flavors of the country's culinary heritage. This hearty and flavorful meal consists of shredded beef, black beans, rice, and sweet plantains. Pabellón Criollo showcases the vibrant and rich culinary traditions of Venezuela and is beloved by locals and visitors alike. In this article, we will guide you through an authentic Pabellón Criollo recipe, allowing you to savor the authentic taste of this Venezuelan national dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the shredded beef:

1 pound beef (such as flank steak or skirt steak)

1 onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 cup beef broth

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

For the black beans:

1 cup dried black beans

4 cups water

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt to taste

For the rice:

2 cups white rice

4 cups water

Salt to taste

For the sweet plantains:

2 ripe plantains, peeled and sliced

Vegetable oil for frying

Step 1: Cook the shredded beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef and brown it on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced red bell pepper until softened. Return the beef to the pot and add beef broth, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and can be easily shredded. Shred the beef using two forks and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the black beans

In a separate pot, rinse the dried black beans under cold water. Add the beans to the pot along with water, chopped onion, minced garlic, bay leaf, ground cumin, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Remove the bay leaf and set the beans aside.

Step 3: Cook the rice

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the white rice, water, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.

Step 4: Fry the sweet plantains

In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced plantains and fry them until they are golden brown and caramelized on both sides. Remove the plantains from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble and serve

To serve Pabellón Criollo, place a serving of rice on a plate, followed by a generous portion of shredded beef and black beans. Add a side of fried sweet plantains. The combination of flavors and textures will create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Optional: Garnish and Variations

Garnish Pabellón Criollo with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for added freshness and flavor. Serve with a side of Venezuelan arepas or cornbread to complete the meal. Customize the dish by adding avocado slices, fried eggs, or a drizzle of garlic sauce (salsa de ajo).

With this authentic Pabellón Criollo recipe, you can embark on a culinary journey to Venezuela and savor the rich and vibrant flavors of this beloved national dish. The combination of tender shredded beef, flavorful black beans, fluffy rice, and sweet plantains creates a harmonious and satisfying meal. Pabellón Criollo is a testament to the diverse and vibrant culinary heritage of Venezuela and is sure to please your taste buds. Gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and indulge in the deliciousness of Pabellón Criollo right in your own home.