How to Make Authentic Cuban Ropa Vieja with Tender Shredded Beef

Simple Summary

Ropa Vieja is a classic Cuban dish featuring tender shredded beef in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This comforting meal is packed with vegetables and spices, making it a hearty and satisfying dinner option.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 2 lbs flank steak, cut into large pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
• 2 tbsp capers, drained
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the flank steak pieces and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat and set aside.

2. In the same pot, add the remaining oil and sauté the onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Return the beef to the pot and add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, white wine, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.

5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2-2.5 hours, or until the beef is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.

6. Remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot.

7. Add the olives and capers to the pot. Simmer uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaves.

9. Stir in fresh cilantro just before serving.

Chef's Notes

• For extra tender beef, you can cook this dish in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours instead of on the stovetop.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a diced jalapeño pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Leftover Ropa Vieja can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• For a quicker version, you can use pre-cooked shredded beef, but the flavor won't be as rich.

Nutritional Info

Per serving: Approximately 350 calories, 35g protein, 15g fat (5g saturated), 10g carbohydrates, 3g fiber. This dish is high in protein and provides a good source of vitamins A and C from the bell peppers and tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ropa Vieja over white rice or with black beans on the side. Fried plantains (maduros) make an excellent accompaniment. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and lime wedges. For a complete Cuban-inspired meal, pair with a mojito or a cold beer. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a filling for tacos or burritos.