If you’re looking for a dish that is comforting, flavorful, and rich in tradition, Ropa Vieja should be at the top of your list. Known as Cuba’s national dish, this hearty shredded beef stew is simmered in a savory tomato-based sauce with peppers, onions, and spices. The best part? You can make a quick & delicious Ropa Vieja recipe you must try at home with simple ingredients and easy steps.
🌟 What Is Ropa Vieja?
“Ropa Vieja” literally means “old clothes” in Spanish. The dish gets its name from the way the beef is shredded into long, stringy pieces that resemble torn fabric. Traditionally, it’s cooked low and slow until the beef becomes tender and flavorful. But with the right shortcuts, you can enjoy the same depth of taste in less time.
🥩 Ingredients You’ll Need
For this quick Ropa Vieja recipe, you’ll need:
2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup pimento-stuffed green olives (optional but traditional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
👉 Pro tip: A pressure cooker or Instant Pot helps cut cooking time dramatically while keeping the beef tender and flavorful.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Quick Ropa Vieja Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Instant Pot.
Sear beef on both sides until browned. This locks in flavor.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Add sliced onions, peppers, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir in crushed tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker: Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes, then natural release.
Stovetop: Simmer covered for 2–3 hours until beef is fork-tender.
Step 5: Shred & Finish
Remove beef, shred with forks, then return it to the sauce.
Stir in olives for an authentic touch.
Garnish with cilantro or parsley before serving.
🍚 How to Serve Ropa Vieja
This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with:
White rice (classic Cuban style)
Black beans
Fried plantains (sweet or savory)
Warm crusty bread
🔥 Practical Tips for Success
Choose the right cut: Flank or skirt steak shreds perfectly.
Make ahead: Ropa Vieja tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Freeze-friendly: Store leftovers in portions for easy future meals.
✅ Conclusion
This quick & delicious Ropa Vieja recipe you must try brings the heart of Cuban cuisine right to your kitchen. With tender shredded beef, a rich tomato-pepper sauce, and bold spices, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you serve it with rice, beans, or plantains, Ropa Vieja is sure to become a household favorite.
So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and master this timeless recipe tonight! 🇨🇺✨