Empanadas de Ropa Vieja

"Ropa vieja is a much-adored entrée, globally, with variations in a multitude of cultures across the Americas, the Iberian Peninsula, and the Philippines. It’s particularly treasured within the culinary canon of Cuba, where it is celebrated as the country’s national dish. So named for its resemblance to old, torn-up clothing, the Cuban version of ropa vieja is typically made with shredded beef stewed in a rich, tomato-based sauce, along with onions, bell peppers and a savory suite of satisfyingly zesty spices. That’s the approach our supplier in Florida— the capital of Cuban cuisine within the U.S., we might add—takes with Trader Joe’s Empanadas de Ropa Vieja, which recontextualizes this classic dish into the cozy confines of a crisp, cassava-based pastry crust. And since our supplier has done all that work for you, all you need to do to enjoy these estimable Empanadas is heat them, from frozen, in your oven for about 15 minutes, or your air fryer for about 10. From there, you’re free to enjoy them as an effortless appetizer along with your favorite dipping sauce—we find that their rich, hearty flavor and mix of tender and crispy textures take especially well to the herby, slightly spicy notes of our Chimichurri Sauce, for instance. Or, if you’re more in the mood for a full meal, enjoy them alongside some well-seasoned rice and Organic Black Beans."