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Cuban Ropa Vieja

Savory Cuban Ropa Vieja: Comforting Shredded Beef Delight

Cuban Ropa Vieja is a comforting dish of shredded beef enveloped in rich tomato sauce, bursting with spices.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 1 pound Flank Steak or Chuck Roast Flank steak is traditional for tenderness, while chuck roast is more budget-friendly.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 medium Yellow or Sweet Onions Yellow onions provide classic flavor; sweet onions offer milder taste.
  • 1 cup Green Bell Pepper Feel free to use any color based on what you have on hand.
  • 1 cup Red Bell Pepper Adds sweetness and texture.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Canned Tomatoes (Crushed or Sauce) Can substitute with fresh tomatoes.
  • 1 cup White Wine Optional, can be replaced with beef broth or apple cider vinegar.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Essential for that signature Cuban flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Adds a warm, earthy note.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Brings a subtle smokiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Adjust the heat level to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Forks

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Prepare the beef by placing flank steak or chuck roast in a large pot, covering it with water and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
  2. Shred the beef once cooked, reserving one cup of broth.
  3. Sauté onions and bell peppers in olive oil for 6-8 minutes until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, then add canned tomatoes and reserved beef broth. If using wine, add now along with cumin, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
  5. Mix in the shredded beef, ensuring it's well-coated. Let it simmer on low for 20-30 minutes.
  6. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving. Remove bay leaves if used.
  7. Garnish and serve hot over rice, alongside black beans or plantains.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Cuban Ropa Vieja deepens in flavor with refrigeration; it's perfect for meal prep and makes leftovers even more delicious.

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