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Savory Ropa Vieja Recipe Easy Cuban Shredded Beef Dinner

Savory Ropa Vieja Cuban Shredded Beef Recipe - featured image
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A comforting Cuban shredded beef dish slow-cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and smoky spices, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 to 3 pounds beef chuck roast
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 cup green olives, sliced (optional but recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon capers
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano on all sides.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the beef for about 4 minutes on each side until a rich brown crust forms.
  3. Remove the beef and set aside. Lower heat to medium and add sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and diced tomatoes with their juices. Let simmer for 2 minutes. Pour in beef broth, then add bay leaves, sliced olives, and capers. Stir to combine.
  5. Return the seared chuck roast to the pot. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to low. Simmer gently for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until beef is fork-tender.
  6. Remove beef from pot and shred using two forks or shredding claws. Return shredded beef to the sauce and stir well.
  7. Simmer shredded beef uncovered for another 10-15 minutes to thicken sauce and marry flavors. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve garnished with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley.

Notes

Use a good quality tomato sauce for best flavor. If sauce thickens too much during cooking, add a splash of water or broth. Shred beef while warm for easier shredding. Slow cooking low and slow is key for tender beef. Can be adapted for slow cooker by transferring after searing and sautéing, cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: Ropa Vieja, Cuban shredded beef, slow-cooked beef, easy Cuban dinner, savory beef recipe, shredded beef recipe

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/savory-ropa-vieja-recipe-easy-cuban-shredded-beef-dinner/