ropa vieja slow cooker recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
ropa vieja slow cooker recipe
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The Best ropa vieja slow cooker recipe

I love making ropa vieja in my slow cooker because it turns a tough cut of beef into something so tender and flavorful. This Cuban shredded beef dish is a family favorite in my house, and the slow cooker makes it so easy to get that authentic taste without standing over the stove all day. The beef simmers with bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a rich tomato sauce until it falls apart perfectly. My kids love it served over rice with black beans, and my husband always goes back for seconds. It is a great recipe for a busy weeknight because you can prep it in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner. The beef is a good source of protein and iron, and the peppers and tomatoes add vitamins and fiber. This is a meal that feels special but is simple to put together.

Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja

Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja

4.7 from 1355 votes

This slow cooker ropa vieja is a classic Cuban dish made with flank steak simmered in a savory tomato sauce with bell peppers and onions. It is incredibly tender and full of flavor, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beef and Sauce

2 pounds flank steak
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving

Cooked white rice
Black beans
Fresh cilantro for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the flank steak with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak on both sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2Transfer the seared steak to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3Pour the vegetable mixture over the beef in the slow cooker. In a small bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Pour this sauce over the beef and vegetables. Add the bay leaf.
4Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is very tender and shreds easily.
5Remove the bay leaf. Using two forks, shred the beef directly in the slow cooker. Stir the shredded beef into the sauce and vegetables. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6Serve the ropa vieja over cooked white rice with black beans on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Large skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Two forks for shredding beef

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 42g

📝Notes

Tips: Flank steak is traditional, but you can also use skirt steak or chuck roast. For a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking. This recipe can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja Works

This slow cooker ropa vieja is always a good idea for any occasion because it is so easy to make and feeds a crowd with minimal effort. It works perfectly for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, and the tender, flavorful beef always gets rave reviews.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja

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

Yes, you can. While flank steak is traditional, skirt steak or chuck roast work very well in the slow cooker. Just make sure to cook it until it is very tender and shreds easily.

2. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely. Ropa vieja actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

3. Can I freeze leftover ropa vieja?

Yes, this freezes well. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. What can I serve with ropa vieja besides rice?

Ropa vieja is often served with white rice and black beans, but it is also great with fried plantains, in tacos, or on top of a salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

5. How do I get the beef to shred easily?

The key is to cook the beef low and slow until it is fork-tender. If it does not shred easily, it needs more time. Cook it on low for the full 8 hours or until it falls apart with two forks.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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