Classic Cuban comfort food made simple, flavorful, and unforgettable
If you’re craving a hearty, soulful dish packed with bold flavors, ropa vieja deserves a spot at the top of your list. Known as Cuba’s national dish, this shredded beef recipe simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce is comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make at home.
In this guide, you’ll learn what makes ropa vieja special, how to prepare a quick and delicious ropa vieja recipe, smart cooking tips, tasty variations, and the best ways to serve it. Perfect for home cooks in the US, UK, and Canada.
What Is Ropa Vieja?
Ropa vieja translates to “old clothes” in Spanish, referring to the tender shredded beef that resembles torn fabric. Traditionally made with flank steak slow-cooked in a savory sauce of tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and spices, it’s a dish rooted in warmth, history, and family meals.
Today, many modern versions make this classic much faster—without sacrificing flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Ropa Vieja Recipe
Rich, slow-simmered taste in less time
Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Naturally gluten-free
Comforting yet vibrant
This is truly a ropa vieja recipe you must try at least once.
Quick & Delicious Ropa Vieja Recipe
Ingredients
2 lb flank steak (or chuck steak)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
1 cup crushed tomatoes
½ cup beef broth
¼ cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons capers (optional but authentic)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Place flank steak in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 45–60 minutes until tender. Remove beef, let cool slightly, then shred with two forks.
Quick hack: Use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot to reduce cooking time to about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot. Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, and oregano—cook until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, bay leaf, and capers. Simmer for 10 minutes to let flavors develop.
Step 4: Combine & Finish
Add shredded beef to the sauce. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
Remove bay leaf before serving.
Practical Tips for the Best Ropa Vieja
Shred beef while warm for best texture
Simmer uncovered to thicken the sauce
Don’t rush the sauce—flavor comes from time
Use flank steak for authentic texture
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving
Popular Ropa Vieja Variations
Instant Pot Ropa Vieja
Cook beef and sauce together under pressure for a true one-pot meal.
Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja
Set it and forget it—perfect for busy days.
Chicken Ropa Vieja
Swap beef for shredded chicken for a lighter version.
Spicy Ropa Vieja
Add chili flakes or a sliced jalapeño for heat.
What to Serve with Ropa Vieja
This dish shines when paired with classic sides:
White rice
Black beans
Fried plantains (tostones or maduros)
Cuban bread or crusty rolls
Simple avocado salad
Leftovers taste even better the next day.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigerate: Up to 4 days
Freeze: Up to 3 months
Reheat: Gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth
Ropa vieja is excellent for meal prep and batch cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Overcooking peppers until mushy
❌ Not seasoning the beef early
❌ Skipping the simmer step
❌ Using lean cuts that dry out
Patience = flavor.
Final Thoughts
This quick & delicious ropa vieja recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With tender shredded beef, a deeply savory sauce, and classic Cuban flavors, it’s a dish that warms the heart and brings people together.
Once you try it, ropa vieja may just become a regular in your kitchen rotation.
🍽️ Simple ingredients. Rich tradition. Incredible flavor.