Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja is a traditional Cuban dish made with shredded beef in a flavorful tomato sauce. Key ingredients include beef, onions, peppers, garlic, and spices. Serve as a main course for special occasions or as a comforting family meal.

Ropa vieja
  • Ingredients:
    • 1 lb beef, flank or round steak
    • 1 large onion, chopped
    • 1 large green pepper, chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
    • 1 tbsp tomato paste
    • 1 tsp dried oregano
    • 1 tsp cumin
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • Preparation:
    1. In a large skillet, brown the beef over medium heat until browned on all sides.
    2. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
    3. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and green pepper until soft.
    4. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
    5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
    6. Return the beef to the skillet, reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.
    7. Serve over rice, with plantains or with a side of black beans.

Tips for preparation of Ropa Vieja

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 lb beef, flank or round steak
    • 1 large onion, chopped
    • 1 large green pepper, chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
    • 1 tbsp tomato paste
    • 1 tsp dried oregano
    • 1 tsp cumin
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • Preparation:
    1. In a large skillet, brown the beef over medium heat until browned on all sides.
    2. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
    3. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and green pepper until soft.
    4. Add in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
    5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and beef broth.
    6. Return the beef to the skillet, reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.
    7. Serve over rice, with plantains or with a side of black beans.

Ropa Vieja serving size

  • For one person, 1/2 – 3/4 lb of Ropa Vieja is a good serving size.
  • For a couple, a 1-1.5 lb serving of Ropa Vieja is recommended.
  • For a family of 4, a 2-2.5 lb serving of Ropa Vieja is suggested.

Ropa Vieja nutrition value

  • Approximately 300-400 calories per serving
  • A source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals
  • High in sodium and fat, so consume in moderation.

More Ropa Vieja types