Sobrebarriga

Sobrebarriga Recipe - A Colombian Classic

Region / culture: Colombia | Preparation time: overnight | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Sobrebarriga is a traditional Colombian dish made with flank steak that is marinated and slow-cooked until tender. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting meal at home.

History

Sobrebarriga has been a popular dish in Colombia for generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the recipe. The dish is often served at family gatherings, holidays, and celebrations, making it a beloved staple in Colombian cuisine.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) flank steak, trimmed of all fat
1.5 tsp salt
freshly ground pepper
3 tbsp vegetable oil for marinade
1 cup coarsely chopped onions
0.5 cup finely diced celery
0.5 tsp minced garlic
4 small tomatoes, finely chopped
3 tbsp oil for frying
2 cup water
1 bottle of beer
0.5 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cumin

How to prepare

Marinate the meat overnight with salt, pepper, vegetable oil, onions, celery, garlic, and tomatoes.
The next day, heat 3 tbsp of oil over high heat in a heavy casserole and add the flank steak; brown it quickly on both sides without burning.
Transfer the steak to a plate and sauté the vegetables until they are soft but not brown.
Return the meat to the casserole.
Pour in the water and beer and bring to a boil.
Cover the casserole and cook slowly for about two hours until the meat is tender.
During the last hour of cooking, add the final 0.5 tsp of salt and the 1 tsp of ground cumin.
Remove the flank steak and place it on an oven-proof plate.
Top with onions, etc. and broil until brown.

Variations

Add bell peppers and carrots for extra flavor and color.
Use different spices such as paprika or chili powder for a spicy kick.
Substitute beer with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Marinate the meat overnight for maximum flavor.

- Brown the meat quickly on high heat to seal in the juices.

- Cook the meat slowly over low heat to ensure it is tender and flavorful.

- Broil the meat at the end for a crispy and caramelized finish.

Serving Suggestions

Sobrebarriga is traditionally served with rice, beans, and a side of avocado salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the meat overnight for maximum flavor.

- Brown the meat quickly on high heat to seal in the juices.

- Slow-cook the meat over low heat for a tender and flavorful result.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute flank steak with skirt steak or brisket.

- Use chicken or pork for a different twist on the recipe.

- Replace beer with beef broth or red wine for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Sobrebarriga can be marinated and cooked ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Sobrebarriga on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Sobrebarriga pairs well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer to complement the rich and savory flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Sobrebarriga in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sobrebarriga contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

Sobrebarriga is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those following a carb-conscious diet.

Fats

The fat content in Sobrebarriga comes mainly from the marbled flank steak, providing a rich and savory flavor to the dish.

Proteins

Flank steak is a great source of protein, making Sobrebarriga a filling and satisfying meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Sobrebarriga is rich in iron, zinc, and B vitamins, providing essential nutrients for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Sobrebarriga may contain allergens such as celery and gluten from beer, so be sure to check for any dietary restrictions before serving.

Summary

Sobrebarriga is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and low in carbs, making it a healthy option for a balanced diet.

Summary

Sobrebarriga is a classic Colombian dish made with marinated flank steak that is slow-cooked until tender and flavorful. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting dinner at home.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Sobrebarriga. It was a warm summer day, and I was strolling through the bustling streets of Colombia, my home country. The aroma of sizzling meat and spices filled the air, drawing me towards a small food stall tucked away in a corner.

As I approached the stall, I saw a kind elderly woman standing behind a large pot, stirring a delicious-looking stew. Intrigued, I struck up a conversation with her, and she told me that she was making Sobrebarriga, a traditional Colombian dish made with flank steak cooked in a flavorful sauce.

I watched intently as she added ingredients like onions, tomatoes, garlic, and spices to the pot, creating a rich and aromatic broth. She explained the importance of slow cooking the meat to tender perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together in harmony.

I asked her if she would share her recipe with me, and she smiled warmly, handing me a handwritten note with detailed instructions on how to recreate the dish at home. I thanked her profusely and made a mental note to try making Sobrebarriga myself.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the necessary ingredients and getting to work. I followed the recipe to the letter, taking care to sauté the onions and garlic until they were fragrant, then adding the tomatoes, spices, and broth to simmer slowly.

As the meat cooked, the savory aroma filled my kitchen, transporting me back to that bustling street in Colombia. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish, eager to see if I had done justice to the recipe I had learned from the kind woman at the food stall.

When the Sobrebarriga was finally ready, I ladled a generous portion onto a plate and took a tentative bite. The flavors exploded on my tongue, each bite a symphony of savory, spicy, and comforting notes. I closed my eyes and savored the moment, grateful for the opportunity to learn a new recipe and connect with my heritage in such a meaningful way.

From that day on, Sobrebarriga became a staple in my culinary repertoire, a dish that I would prepare for family gatherings, special occasions, and weeknight dinners alike. Each time I made it, I would think back to that warm summer day in Colombia, to the kind woman who had shared her recipe with me, and to the joy of discovering a new favorite dish.

As the years passed, I continued to refine my recipe for Sobrebarriga, adding my own twists and variations to make it uniquely mine. I shared it with friends and loved ones, passing on the tradition of this beloved Colombian dish to the next generation.

And now, as I stand in my kitchen, stirring a pot of simmering Sobrebarriga, I can't help but smile at the memories it brings back. The flavors, the aromas, the warmth of that fateful day in Colombia – they all come flooding back with each spoonful of this delicious stew.

I am grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover this recipe, for the joy it has brought me and my loved ones, and for the connection it has given me to my roots. Sobrebarriga will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly thankful.