Pabellon Criollo recipe served on a plate, by Pekin the Chef
Jul 09 2026
Restaurants›Heaven Restaurant Market›Pabellon Criollo Recipe

Pabellon Criollo Recipe

Time2h
Serves4

Venezuela's national dish! Shredded beef, black beans, tajadas, coconut rice, avocado slices, and a side of plain arepa.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Main Ingredients

Seasoning for Beef

For Coconut Rice

Method

Prepare the Beef

1

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, add the beef brisket, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, cumin, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender. Remove the beef, shred it, and set aside.

Prepare the Black Beans

2

Cook the Beans

If using dried black beans, soak them overnight and boil until tender. If using canned beans, simply heat them in a saucepan with some salt and spices.

Make the Coconut Rice

3

Cook the Rice

Combine jasmine rice, coconut milk, and water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and fluffy.

Prepare Tajadas

4

Fry the Plantains

Slice the plantains diagonally and fry in hot oil until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Serve the Dish

5

Assemble Pabellon Criollo

On a plate, serve a portion of shredded beef, a scoop of black beans, a serving of coconut rice, and tajadas. Add avocado slices and a side of plain arepa.