ropa vieja crock pot recipe

4.5 from 649 votes

This classic Cuban shredded beef dish is made incredibly easy using a slow cooker. The beef simmers low and slow with a savory tomato based sauce until it is fall apart tender.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time6 hours

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time6 hours 15 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef

2 lbs flank steak

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

1 large onion, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1/2 cup beef broth

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp dried oregano

1 bay leaf

1/4 cup green olives, pitted and sliced

2 tbsp capers, rinsed

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the flank steak with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Sear the steak for 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned.

2Place the sliced onions and bell peppers in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic on top.

3In a small bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, cumin, and oregano. Pour half of this mixture over the vegetables.

4Place the seared flank steak on top of the vegetables. Pour the remaining sauce over the steak and add the bay leaf.

5Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the beef is very tender.

6Remove the bay leaf. Using two forks, shred the beef directly in the slow cooker. Stir in the sliced olives and capers. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker

Large skillet

Cutting board

Knife

Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 9g🥩Protein: 42g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of dry sherry or red wine with the broth. Serve with white rice, black beans, and fried plantains.

Watch Video Of How ropa vieja crock pot recipe Works

This ropa vieja crock pot recipe is always a good idea because it is simple to prepare and feeds a crowd with minimal effort. It works well for family gatherings because everyone loves the rich, comforting flavors, and you can easily double the recipe for a larger group.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About ropa vieja crock pot

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chuck roast or brisket instead of flank steak. Just make sure to trim any excess fat before cooking.

2. Do I have to sear the beef first?

Searing the beef adds a lot of flavor, but if you are short on time, you can skip this step. The meat will still be tender, but it wont have the same depth of flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Ropa vieja actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.

4. What should I serve with ropa vieja?

It is traditionally served with white rice, black beans, and fried plantains. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.

5. How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use low sodium beef broth and tomato sauce to reduce the salt content. You can also add more vegetables like carrots or zucchini to boost the fiber.

ropa vieja crock pot recipe

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