Ropa Vieja Cuban

Ropa Vieja is a traditional Cuban dish that translates to "old clothes" in English, named for its shredded beef that resembles tattered clothing. This savory and comforting dish is a staple in Cuban cuisine, featuring tender shredded beef simmered in a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce.

Gluten Free Dairy Free Main Course Cuban Cuban Cuisine Beef Tomato Based Comfort Food
Ropa Vieja Cuban

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs flank steak
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the steak on both sides until browned, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the steak and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, white wine, bay leaves, cumin, oregano, and additional salt and pepper. Return the steak to the pot.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
  5. Remove the steak from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Discard the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the ropa vieja hot with rice and black beans.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
3 hours
Total time:
3 hours
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
15g
Fat
20g

Supplies

Large pot Cooking spoon Cutting board Knife Measuring cups and spoons

Tools

Forks for shredding

Serving suggestions

Serve the ropa vieja with a side of fluffy white rice and black beans for a complete Cuban meal.

Tips & tricks

For even more flavor, marinate the flank steak in a mixture of citrus juice, garlic, and spices for a few hours before cooking.

Cost

$20