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Cuban Ropa Vieja

Cuban Ropa Vieja: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight at Home

Experience the warm and savory flavors of Cuban Ropa Vieja, a comforting dish perfect for any family dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 2 pounds flank steak can substitute with chuck roast or brisket
For the Vegetables
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • 3 bell peppers assorted colors
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 carrot cut into thirds
  • 1 rib celery cut into thirds
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado/vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
For the Liquid
  • 1/2 cup white wine or broth
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 14 ounces crushed tomatoes canned
For Flavor Enhancements
  • 2 bay leaves remove before serving
  • 1 cup pimento-stuffed olives sliced
  • 4 ounces sliced pimentos optional
  • 2 tablespoons capers optional
  • chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp Knife
  • Measuring Cups
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Start by trimming any excess fat from the flank steak and cut it into large chunks. Generously season the meat with salt and black pepper on all sides, allowing it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned beef chunks and sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they develop a deep golden-brown crust.
  3. In the same pot, add the sliced onion and diced bell peppers, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until they're softened and lightly caramelized.
  4. Add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and the dried spices (oregano, cumin, paprika, allspice, and cloves) to the sautéed vegetables, stirring well to combine for 2 minutes.
  5. Pour in ½ cup of white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Then, mix in 1 cup of chicken broth and a 14-ounce can of crushed tomatoes.
  6. Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the carrot, celery, and 2 bay leaves. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer gently for about 2 to 3 hours.
  7. Once the beef is tender, remove it from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded beef to the sauce, then stir in the sliced pimento-stuffed olives and capers, and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  8. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve over steamed white rice, pairing with black beans.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 40gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 90mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Cuban Ropa Vieja is a comforting stew that highlights the flavors of Cuban cuisine and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

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