Ropa Vieja
Ropa Vieja is a sumptuous Cuban dish that translates to “old clothes,” inspired by the appearance of tender, shredded beef stewed in a rich, flavorful sauce. With its vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas, it's a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Our recipe offers a delightful, homemade version that's sure to impress your friends and family. Get ready for a culinary adventure filled with spices that burst with life!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of flank steak you can substitute with skirt steak if needed
- 1 onion chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped (red or green - your call!)
- 4 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz of diced tomatoes (don’t drain them!)
- 1 cup of beef broth chicken broth works as a substitute
- 2 teaspoons of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup of green olives pitted and sliced (trust me, don’t skip this!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil. Season your flank steak with salt and pepper, then sear it until it’s brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes. You’ll love that sizzle!
- Get Aromatic: Remove the beef and let it rest. In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they’re soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. The kitchen is going to smell heavenly!
- Build the Flavor: Dice up the cooked beef into chunks and throw it back in the pot. Now add those diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, oregano, and bay leaf. Give it all a good stir!
- Let It Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Grab a book or catch up on your favorite show during this waiting game. You can always sneak in a taste!
- The Finale: Remove the beef and shred it with two forks. Return it to the pot, dropping in the green olives. Stir to combine everything. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. If you want, serve it over rice or with warm tortillas.