Go Back
–+ servings
Delicious Cuban Ajiaco

Delicious Cuban Ajiaco: The Ultimate Comfort Food Stew

Delicious Cuban Ajiaco is a warm hug in a bowl, combining tender meats and vibrant vegetables for a comforting dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meats
  • 1 pound pork shoulder Adds tenderness and juicy flavor; look for high-quality cuts for the best results.
  • 1 pound beef stew meat Provides richness and heartiness, essential for a comforting experience.
  • 8 ounces chorizo sausage Introduces a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 potatoes Serve as a hearty base, absorbing flavors and giving body to the dish.
  • 1 cup corn Offers sweetness and a pop of color; feel free to use fresh or frozen.
  • 1 green plantain Adds unique texture and slight sweetness when cooked.
  • 1 yellow yam Contributes creaminess and subtle earthiness that balances the dish.
  • 1 cup cassava Provides a chewy texture that's perfect in stews.
  • 1 onion Essential for building flavor, browns beautifully during sautéing.
  • 3 garlic Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
  • 1 red bell pepper Adds mild sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 2 tomatoes Balances richness with acidity.
For the Broth & Seasoning
  • 4 cups beef broth Enriches the stew with savory depth.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for sautéing, it enhances richness and flavor.
  • 1 bay leaf Imparts depth and fragrance.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Adds earthy warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon oregano Brings bright herbaceous notes.
  • salt Essential for seasoning.
  • pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar Brightens the dish.
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro For garnish, it adds a fresh finishing touch.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for about 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
  2. Next, add 1 pound of cubed pork shoulder, 1 pound of beef stew meat, and 8 ounces of sliced chorizo to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
  3. Add 2 peeled and chopped potatoes, 1 cup of corn, 1 sliced green plantain, 1 peeled and chopped yellow yam, and 1 cup of diced cassava. Mix well for about 2 minutes.
  4. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, 1 diced red bell pepper, 2 diced tomatoes, 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.
  5. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Using high-quality meats and allowing the stew to simmer slowly will enhance flavors tremendously. Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning as preferred.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!