Ropa Vieja recipe served on a plate, by Yats Cajun Creole
Jul 13 2026
Restaurants›Yats Cajun Creole›Ropa Vieja Recipe

Ropa Vieja Recipe

Inspired by Yats Cajun Creole
Time2h 30m
Serves6

Shredded beef cooked in a savory tomato sauce with peppers and onions.

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Ingredients

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Meat

Vegetables

Sauce

Garnish

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare the Meat

    In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, sear the flank steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the meat and set aside.

  2. 2

    Sauté the Vegetables

    In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add chopped onions, bell peppers, garlic, and carrot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Cooking

  1. 3

    Combine Ingredients

    Add the seared flank steak back into the pot. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Add cumin, oregano, bay leaves, sugar, and additional salt and pepper to taste.

  2. 4

    Simmer

    Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 2 hours or until the meat is tender and can be shredded easily with a fork.

Shredding and Serving

  1. 5

    Shred the Meat

    Once the meat is tender, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the meat using two forks and return it to the pot, mixing it with the sauce.

  2. 6

    Garnish and Serve

    Serve the Ropa Vieja hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.

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