Worth The Hunt
The Recipe · No.1275 · Pabellon Criollo

Pabellon Criollo, and where to source it

Pabellon Criollo — Worth The Hunt WORTH THE HUNT Pabellon Criollo Venezuelan 5best2buy.com

Boil the flank steak whole until fork-tender, then shred it along the grain into fine strands before returning it to the sofrito to soak up flavor.

By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026

Prep25 min
Cook2 hours
Makes4 servings
CuisineVenezuelan
Cost$$$
Gluten-freeDairy-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for 4 servings
Flank steak
1.5 lb
1.5 lb
Local / market
Black beans, cooked
3 cups
3 cups
Local / market
White rice, cooked
4 cups
4 cups
Local / market
Ripe plantains
2
2
Onion, diced
1
1
Local / market
Bell pepper, diced
1
1
Local / market
Tomatoes, diced
2
2
Local / market
Garlic cloves, minced
3
3
Local / market
Ground cumin
1 tsp
1 tsp
Local / market
Vegetable oil
3 tbsp
3 tbsp
The Rundown
Greedometer ●●●●● Barely a splurge
A light hand — your arteries say thanks. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Instant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
  1. Boil the flank steak with a little onion and garlic until fork-tender, reserving the broth.1.5 hours
  2. Shred the cooled beef along the grain into fine strands.10 min
  3. Build a sofrito of onion, pepper, garlic, and tomato, add cumin, then fold in the beef with a splash of broth.15 min
  4. Fry the ripe plantain slices until caramelized on both sides.8 min
  5. Plate beef, black beans, rice, and plantain in four sections.3 min
The Toolkit

Large pot · Skillet · Two forks for shredding

Straight Answers
Can you make Pabellon Criollo in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert

Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.

Can you freeze Pabellon Criollo? — Yes

Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can you make Pabellon Criollo ahead of time? — Yes

Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Is Pabellon Criollo gluten-free? — Yes

Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.

Is Pabellon Criollo vegan? — No

No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.

Community Notes

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© 2026 5best2buy · Worth The Hunt · Recipe No.1275