Dive into the heart of Cuban cuisine with this classic dish, Ropa Vieja. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of Cuba right into your kitchen with tender, shredded beef stewed in a rich, vibrant sauce of tomatoes, bell peppers, andspices. It’s a comforting meal that promises to transport you to the streets of Havana with each bite.
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Heartfelt Ropa Vieja
Dive into the heart of Cuban cuisine with this classic dish, Ropa Vieja. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of Cuba right into your kitchen with tender, shredded beef stewed in a rich, vibrant sauce of tomatoes, bell peppers, andspices. It’s a comforting meal that promises to transport you to the streets of Havana with each bite.
Ingredients
- 2lbs flank steak
- 1large onion, thinly sliced
- 1red bell pepper, sliced
- 1green bell pepper, sliced
- 3cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tspground cumin
- 1 tspdried oregano
- 1/2 cuptomato sauce
- 1 cupbeef broth
- 2 tbspolive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cupchopped cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: In alarge pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper and sear each side for about 4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add more oil if needed, then add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until they are soft.
- Cook the Meat: Return the beef to the pot, add tomato sauce, beef broth, cumin, and oregano. Bring to a simmer, cover, and let it cook on low heat for about 2 hours until the meat is tender enough to be easily shredded.
- Shred and Serve: Remove the beef, shred it with twoforks, then return it to the pot. Stir well to mix with the sauce and vegetables. Serve over white rice, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.
Notes
Cooking Tip: Ensure the beef is tender by cooking it slowly and gently; this can take a couple of hours.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with a side of black beans and fried plantains for a traditional Cuban meal.
Variations: For a lighter version, try using chicken breast or thigh meat instead of beef.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Protein: 40 g
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