As I stepped into Alma Cubana, a charming Cuban-inspired restaurant in Miami, I was immediately struck by the vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant exudes a blend of tropical colors and rustic wooden accents, transporting you to the streets of Havana with its laid-back yet lively vibe. The dim lighting, soft Latin music playing in the background, and the wafting scent of spices made the space feel welcoming and authentic.
First Impressions
Alma Cubana’s decor is a beautiful fusion of classic Cuban elements and Miami’s hip culture. The walls are adorned with vintage Cuban posters, while ceiling fans lazily spin overhead, giving the space an old-world charm. I chose a cozy table by the window, offering a glimpse of the street outside, which perfectly complemented the warm, inviting ambiance inside.
The menu, filled with traditional Cuban dishes with a modern twist, was a feast for the eyes. I could already sense this meal would be more than just food; it was going to be an experience. The friendly server, with a smile as warm as the Caribbean sun, recommended some signature dishes, and I couldn’t resist diving into their suggestions.
The Meal Begins: Appetizers
I started with the Tostones con Mojo—fried plantains served with a zesty garlic-citrus sauce. The plantains were crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and the mojo sauce brought a punchy contrast of flavors. I also tried the Croquetas de Jamón, ham croquettes with a perfectly crunchy exterior and a smooth, creamy filling. They were the ideal comfort food, evoking the nostalgia of Cuban street snacks.
The Main Event: Ropa Vieja
For the main course, I opted for the Ropa Vieja, a classic Cuban dish of shredded beef stewed in a tomato-based sauce with peppers, onions, and spices. The beef was tender and packed with rich, smoky flavors that danced on my palate. It was served with Moros y Cristianos—Cuban black beans and rice—alongside Maduros (sweet plantains), adding a sweet counterbalance to the savory dish. Each bite felt like a celebration of Cuba’s rich culinary heritage, with every ingredient harmonizing perfectly.
Sipping on Havana: Cocktails
Of course, no Cuban dining experience would be complete without a cocktail, and Alma Cubana didn’t disappoint. I indulged in their signature Mojito, a refreshing blend of rum, mint, lime, and soda. It was light and crisp, the mint adding just the right amount of freshness. As I sipped, I could almost imagine the warm breezes of Havana. Their Hemingway Daiquiri was another standout—a sophisticated mix of rum, grapefruit, and maraschino, balanced with a hint of sweetness.
Sweet Endings: Dessert
To finish off the meal, I couldn’t resist trying the Flan Cubano, a traditional Cuban caramel flan. It was creamy, silky, and the caramel sauce was perfectly sweet without being overpowering. The rich, custardy texture was the perfect way to end a meal that had already transported me across the globe.
Bring Cuba Home: Homemade Ropa Vieja Recipe
Classic Cuban Shredded Beef
Dive into the rich flavors of Cuba with this Classic Cuban Shredded Beef recipe! Perfect for serving over rice or in tortillas, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. With tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a blend of spices, it’s a meal that brings the taste of Havana to your kitchen. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for any home cook.
4
servings15
minutes4
hours350
kcal4
hours15
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Beef and Broth
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 pounds beef chuck roast
1 cup low-sodium beef stock
- Tomato Base
1 can crushed tomatoes 8-ounce
1 can tomato puree 6-ounce
- Vegetables and Aromatics
1 red bell pepper deseeded and sliced into strips
1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic minced
- Spices and Herbs
1 teaspoon ground coriander
2 teaspoons freshly chopped parsley
- Additional Flavorings
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Alternative Ingredients:
Beef Chuck Roast: Substitute with pork shoulder for a different flavor.
Low-Sodium Beef Stock: Use vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
Crushed Tomatoes: Replace with diced tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
Red Bell Pepper: Use yellow or orange bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Substitute with red wine vinegar for a tangier taste.
Directions
- Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chuck roast until browned on all sides, approximately 4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the seared beef to a slow cooker. Pour in the low-sodium beef stock and crushed tomatoes. Add the tomato puree, red bell pepper strips, sliced onion, minced garlic, ground coriander, freshly chopped parsley, extra virgin olive oil, and apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 8-10 hours or on High for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and easily shredded.
- Once cooked, use two forks to shred the beef directly in the slow cooker. Mix well to ensure the shredded beef is evenly coated with the sauce.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- slow cooker
- Mixing Bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Potassium: 700mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Vitamin A: 15IU
- Vitamin C: 60mg
- Calcium: 6mg
- Iron: 20mg
Final Thoughts
Dining at Alma Cubana was more than just a meal; it was a journey through Cuba’s culinary landscape. The flavors were bold, the dishes authentic, and the service attentive without being overbearing. Whether you’re in Miami for a taste of Cuba or simply looking to enjoy some soulful, delicious food, Alma Cubana is a must-visit. This hidden gem delivers a slice of Havana with every bite, and I left feeling both satisfied and eager to return. Now, with this Ropa Vieja recipe in hand, you can bring a little bit of Cuba into your own home too!
