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Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja

Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja features tender, slow-simmered strands of flank steak bathed in a tomato-rich sauce layered with sweet bell pepper, mellow onion, and warm cumin. A hint of vinegar lifts the deep, beefy flavors, making it comforting yet bright. Serve it for a hearty dinner over rice with black beans or alongside fried plantains.

  • Prep15 mins
  • Cook4 hrs
  • Serves6
  • DifficultyMedium
Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja
  1. 1

    Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add flank steak and cook until browned, about 4 minutes on each side.

  2. 2

    Move the steak to a slow cooker; pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Add the tomato paste, bell pepper, onion, garlic, cumin, cilantro, olive oil, and vinegar; stir until evenly combined.

  3. 3

    Cover and cook on Low for up to 10 hours, or on High for 4 hours.

  4. 4

    Shred the steak in the slow cooker using two forks.

About This Recipe

Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja is a Cuban dinner recipe made with 12 ingredients. It takes about 4 hrs 15 mins, serves 6, and is rated medium. Key ingredients include Beef Broth, Beef Stew Meat, Fresh Cilantro, and Garlic. Each serving provides about 384.97 kcal, and is a good source of protein.

Recipe Questions

What is Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja?
It is a Cuban recipe made with 12 ingredients, usually served for dinner or lunch.
What is Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja made of?
The main ingredients are Beef Broth, Beef Stew Meat, Fresh Cilantro, Garlic, Green Bell Pepper. The full list of 12 is above.
How long does it take to make Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja?
About 4 hrs 15 mins in total: 15 mins to prepare and 4 hrs to cook.
How many calories are in one serving?
One serving provides about 384.97 kcal. The full nutrition breakdown is above.
Is Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja easy to make?
This recipe is rated medium, with 12 ingredients and 4 steps.

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