3 vieja recipes

Ropa vieja is a classic Cuban shredded beef dish braised in a rich tomato sauce with cumin, oregano, garlic, and green peppers. Served over white rice with fried plantains on the side.

Traditional Spanish almond soup from Castilla la Vieja: ground almonds blended into rich consomme, ladled over toast strips, broiled with Parmesan, and scattered with toasted almonds.

With its vibrant color and flavor, yellow rice is a staple in Latin America and the Caribbean. In Cuba, it's traditionally garnished with pimentos, but I sometimes top it with sliced scallions. Serve it with Cuban-style roast pork, ropa vieja or as a side to grilled meats, poultry or seafood.