Cuban Shredded Beef Recipe

Introduction

Cuban Shredded Beef, also known as Ropa Vieja, is a beloved dish in Cuban cuisine, known for its tender, flavorful meat and vibrant, aromatic spices. This savory dish features slow-cooked beef that is shredded and served with a rich, tomato-based sauce full of garlic, onions, peppers, and olives. It’s typically served with rice, black beans, and fried plantains, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

This recipe offers a comforting taste of Cuban heritage, bringing together a combination of sweet, sour, and savory elements that make Ropa Vieja a standout dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a party, or craving something bold and delicious, Cuban Shredded Beef is sure to impress with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and robust flavors.

Why You’ll Love Cuban Shredded Beef

• Tender and Flavorful: The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in a flavorful tomato-based sauce, making it easy to shred and perfect for pairing with rice and other sides.
• Complex Flavors: The combination of spices, garlic, onions, bell peppers, olives, and capers gives the sauce a depth of flavor, offering a balance of savory, tangy, and sweet notes that are typical in Cuban cuisine.
• Versatile: Cuban Shredded Beef can be served in a variety of ways—over rice, in sandwiches, tacos, or with plantains, making it a flexible dish that can suit any occasion.
• Make-Ahead and Leftovers: This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to develop. It’s an excellent make-ahead meal for busy nights or family gatherings.
• Authentic Cuban Dish: If you love exploring global cuisines, Cuban Shredded Beef is a great way to dive into the flavors of Cuba and discover a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 3 hours (including simmering time)
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
• Carbohydrates: 12-15g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

For the Cuban Shredded Beef:

• 2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/3 cup green olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup capers
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)

For Serving (Optional):

• White rice
• Black beans
• Fried plantains

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

Begin by preparing the beef. If you’re using flank steak or skirt steak, season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of cumin and paprika for extra flavor. The beef should be seasoned thoroughly to ensure that each piece absorbs the seasoning while cooking.

Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the beef on both sides until it’s browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds a deep layer of flavor to the beef and forms a nice crust. Once the beef is seared, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a plate.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent and the peppers begin to soften. The garlic should be fragrant but not burnt, so stir frequently.

As the vegetables cook, they will absorb any leftover browned bits from the beef, adding even more flavor to the dish.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to cook for about 1-2 minutes. This will help develop a rich base flavor. Then, add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, paprika, oregano, and bay leaf to the pot, stirring well to combine. These ingredients will form the sauce that the beef will cook in, so make sure everything is evenly mixed.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, and let it cook for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to start melding together.

4. Return the Beef to the Pot

Once the tomato mixture has simmered, return the seared beef to the pot. Add any juices from the plate back into the pot as well. The beef should be mostly submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 2 to 2 ½ hours. This slow simmer allows the beef to become tender and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.

Periodically check the beef, ensuring there’s enough liquid in the pot. If necessary, add a little more beef broth or water.

5. Shred the Beef

Once the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork, remove it from the pot and set it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the beef into thin strips. This is the traditional method of preparing Ropa Vieja, as the beef shreds easily when it’s properly cooked.

Return the shredded beef to the pot and stir it into the sauce. The beef will soak up all the wonderful flavors of the tomato sauce and spices.

6. Add the Final Touches

To finish the dish, add the sliced green olives, capers, white vinegar, and brown sugar to the pot. Stir everything together, and let the beef simmer in the sauce for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The olives and capers add a briny, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the beef, while the vinegar and brown sugar balance out the acidity and sweetness of the tomatoes.

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper to suit your taste.

7. Serve the Cuban Shredded Beef

Once the dish is finished cooking, serve the Cuban Shredded Beef with your choice of accompaniments. It’s typically served with white rice, black beans, and fried plantains, which complement the rich, savory flavors of the beef. You can also garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Cuban Shredded Beef

• Use the Right Cut of Meat: Flank steak or skirt steak are ideal for this recipe because they have a good amount of fat and connective tissue, which helps the beef become tender during slow cooking. However, you can also use chuck roast or brisket if you prefer.
• Slow Cooking is Key: The longer you cook the beef, the more tender and flavorful it will become. Be sure to simmer the beef for at least 2 hours to get the best texture.
• Customize the Flavor: While the recipe calls for green olives and capers, you can adjust the flavor by using other types of olives (like black olives) or omitting them if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Make Ahead: Cuban Shredded Beef tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. It’s perfect for making in advance and reheating when you’re ready to serve.
• Add Heat: If you like a little heat, add a sliced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some spicy kick.

Variations of Cuban Shredded Beef

• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian alternative, try substituting the beef with jackfruit. It has a similar texture to shredded meat and will absorb the flavors of the sauce wonderfully.
• Cuban Shredded Chicken: If you prefer chicken over beef, you can easily swap out the beef for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Cook them in the same way, and shred the meat once it’s tender.
• Add Vegetables: For an extra burst of color and flavor, add diced potatoes, carrots, or peas to the sauce while it’s simmering. These vegetables will absorb the savory flavors and add more texture to the dish.
• Ropa Vieja Tacos: Serve the shredded beef in soft tortillas for a Cuban-inspired taco. Top with shredded lettuce, avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a fun twist.
• Cuban Shredded Beef Sandwiches: Pile the shredded beef onto a crusty Cuban roll with pickles and mustard for a hearty sandwich.

Storage and Shelf Life

Cuban Shredded Beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a little bit of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

For longer storage, you can freeze the shredded beef. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Cuban Shredded Beef

Cuban Shredded Beef pairs perfectly with a variety of sides that complement its bold flavors:

• White Rice: A classic pairing with Cuban Shredded Beef. The fluffy rice absorbs the rich sauce, making each bite even more flavorful.
• Black Beans: Serve the beef with seasoned black beans for a satisfying and hearty combination.
• Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains (tostones or maduros) add a crispy, sweet contrast to the savory beef.
• Cuban Yuca: Yuca (cassava) is another traditional side dish in Cuban cuisine. Boiled yuca with a garlicky sauce is a great accompaniment to Cuban Shredded Beef.
• Cabbage Salad: A simple salad of shredded cabbage, onions, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a fresh, crunchy element to balance out the richness of the beef.

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Conclusion

Cuban Shredded Beef is a flavorful, comforting dish that brings the tastes of Cuba to your table. With its tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and vibrant spices, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you serve it with rice, beans, or plantains, this dish is perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.

With easy-to-follow instructions, helpful tips, and variations to suit different preferences, Cuban Shredded Beef is a versatile and delicious option that anyone can enjoy. Bring a taste of Cuba into your home with this flavorful, slow-cooked dish—you won’t be disappointed!