Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Habana Cuba Restaurant›Ropa Vieja Recipe

Ropa Vieja Recipe

Inspired by Habana Cuba Restaurant
Time3h
Serves6

Shredded beef cooked in a savory tomato sauce.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

Serving Garnish

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Flank Steak

    In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the flank steak with salt and black pepper. Add the flank steak to the pot and sear on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the steak and set aside.

  2. 2

    Sauté the Vegetables

    In the same pot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Combine Ingredients

    Add the canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, oregano, bay leaves, and red wine vinegar to the pot. Stir to combine.

  4. 4

    Add the Steak

    Return the seared flank steak to the pot. The liquid should cover the meat. If necessary, add more beef broth.

  5. 5

    Simmer

    Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Shredding and Serving

  1. 6

    Shred the Beef

    Once the meat is tender, remove it from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces.

  2. 7

    Return Shredded Beef to Sauce

    Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir to combine with the sauce. Allow it to simmer for another 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

  3. 8

    Serve

    Serve the Ropa Vieja garnished with fresh chopped cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Enjoy with rice, beans, or tortillas.

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