Cuban Ropa Vieja Recipe

Discover how to make authentic Cuban Ropa Vieja, a flavorful dish featuring tender shredded beef in a rich tomato sauce. This beloved recipe captures the essence of Cuban cuisine, perfect for a hearty family meal or entertaining guests.

Ingredients for Cuban Ropa Vieja

• 2 lbs flank steak
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

How to Make Cuban Ropa Vieja

1. Preparation:

• Season the flank steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

1. Searing the Steak:

• Sear the flank steak on both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

1. Sautéing Vegetables:

• In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened, about 5-6 minutes.

1. Combining Ingredients:

• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, ground cumin, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.

1. Slow Cooking:

• Return the seared flank steak to the skillet. Cover and simmer over low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

1. Shredding and Serving:

• Remove the bay leaf. Using two forks, shred the beef into bite-sized pieces directly in the skillet. Stir well to combine with the sauce.

1. Final Touch:

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

About the Main Ingredients

• Flank Steak: Known for its robust flavor, flank steak becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked, making it perfect for Ropa Vieja.
• Bell Peppers and Onions: These vegetables add sweetness and texture to the dish, complementing the savory beef and tomato sauce.
• Tomatoes and Spices: Crushed tomatoes provide the base for the sauce, enhanced by cumin, oregano, and bay leaf, creating a rich and aromatic flavor profile.

Enjoy your homemade Cuban Ropa Vieja served hot over rice, accompanied by fried plantains or black beans for a complete Cuban dining experience. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for gatherings and family dinners alike, showcasing the vibrant flavors of traditional Cuban cuisine.