Classic American Ropa Vieja Recipe

4 stars
3.92 (7)
Classic American Ropa Vieja Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
203 mins
Total Time:
223mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on June 29, 2024

Enjoy a taste of Cuba with this Americanized version of Ropa Vieja, a flavorful dish made with tender shredded beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce with bell peppers and onions. This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner and is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs flank or skirt steak
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions

  1. Season the steak with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Sear the steak on both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  4. Transfer the steak to a slow cooker.
  5. In the same skillet, sauté the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
  6. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
  7. Pour the tomato mixture over the steak in the slow cooker.
  8. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender and easily shreddable.
  9. Remove the steak from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
  10. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix well with the sauce.
  11. Serve the Ropa Vieja hot over rice or with warm tortillas.
  12. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Ropa Vieja translates to 'old clothes' in Spanish, referring to the shredded appearance of the beef in the dish.
  • This dish is traditionally made with leftover meat, but this Americanized version uses fresh steak for a tender and flavorful result.