Dinner

Ropa Vieja Cubana

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Ropa Vieja Cubana
Tender shredded beef served over fluffy white rice, garnished with black beans and plantains.

Ropa Vieja is a staple in Cuban cuisine, often referred to as the national dish. The name translates to “old clothes,” which aptly describes how the shredded beef resembles tattered fabric after being slowly simmered until tender and flavorful. This beloved dish captures the essence of Cuban cooking—simple ingredients elevated to create something extraordinary.

“Ropa Vieja is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of Cuban culture, history, and love.”

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds beef chuck roast
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

  2. Brown the Meat: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned beef and brown it on all sides until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

  3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

  4. Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Add tomato sauce, ketchup, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, vinegar, sugar, and enough water to cover the meat by an inch or two.

  5. Slow Cook: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook slowly for about 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork.

  6. Shred the Beef: Once cooked, remove the beef from the pot and shred it into thin strips using two forks or your hands. Return the shredded meat to the cooking liquid, stirring well to coat.

  7. Simmer Again: Let the mixture simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes so that the flavors meld together beautifully.

Ropa Vieja Cubana is a dish that embodies warmth and comfort, making it perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners. Serve this tender shredded beef over fluffy white rice, accompanied by black beans and fried plantains for a complete Cuban meal. This recipe not only offers a taste of Cuba but also creates lasting memories with each delicious bite.

Enjoy the rich flavors and cultural heritage that Ropa Vieja brings to your table!

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