Ingredient appreciation — what makes Ropa Vieja special

What sets Ropa Vieja apart is the handling of plantain. In lesser versions this is treated as a background note. Here it's central and the sweet from caramelised plantain result shows it. I've started buying it to cook with at home after this experience.

paladares are privately owned Cuban restaurants that developed as an alternative to state food service. The a family Sunday lechón atmosphere was right for this kind of food. I had mojito as recommended and it matched well. If you want to understand what makes this cuisine distinctive, Ropa Vieja is the place to start.