Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Columbia Cafe at the Tampa Bay History Center›Ropa Vieja Recipe

Ropa Vieja Recipe

Inspired by Columbia Cafe at the Tampa Bay History Center
Time2h 30m
Serves6

Shredded beef cooked in a savory tomato sauce.

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Ingredients

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Beef

Vegetables

Spices and Seasonings

Other

Method

Preparation of Beef

  1. 1

    Sear the Steak

    Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the flank steak and sear on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.

  2. 2

    Add Broth

    Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the meat is covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Cooking the Sauce

  1. 3

    Prepare Vegetables

    While the beef is simmering, chop the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic.

  2. 4

    Sauté Vegetables

    In a separate pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 5

    Combine Ingredients

    Once the beef is tender, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot.

  4. 6

    Add Sauce Ingredients

    Add the sautéed vegetables, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, olives, cumin, oregano, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir well to combine.

  5. 7

    Simmer

    Cover and let the mixture simmer on low for an additional 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Finishing Touches

  1. 8

    Garnish

    Remove bay leaves from the pot and stir in fresh cilantro. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

  2. 9

    Serve

    Serve the Ropa Vieja over rice or with tortillas, as desired.

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