Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja in the Slow Cooker
Experience the rich, savory goodness of traditional Cuban cuisine with this Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja made conveniently in a slow cooker. This shredded beef dish combines the flavors of cubanelle peppers, tomatoes, and spices, simmered to perfection for tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat. Serve it with rice, black beans, or tortillas for a wholesome and heartwarming meal. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, this recipe not only brings vibrant flavors to your table but also evokes the essence of Cuba with every bite.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cubanelle peppers
2 (Seeded and sliced)
Onion
1 cup (Sliced)
Tomato sauce
1 (8 ounce) can (None)
Tomato paste
1/4 cup (None)
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (None)
Cider vinegar
1 tablespoon (None)
Minced garlic
1 tablespoon (None)
Ground cumin
1 teaspoon (None)
Bay leaf
1 (None)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Boneless beef chuck steaks
1 1/2 lbs (None)
Pimento-stuffed olives
1/3 cup (Chopped)
Capers
2 tablespoons (Chopped)
Fresh cilantro
1/3 cup (Chopped)
Instructions
1
In a large slow cooker (3½-qt or larger), combine the cubanelle peppers, sliced onion, tomato sauce, tomato paste, olive oil, cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground cumin, bay leaf, and salt. Stir well to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
2
Place the boneless beef chuck steaks on top of the mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly. Gently turn the steaks over to soak up the flavors.
3
Cover the slow cooker and set it on the low heat setting. Cook for 8 to 10 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
4
Once cooked, transfer the beef steaks to a cutting board. Carefully discard the bay leaf and shred the beef using two forks, pulling apart into bite-sized pieces.
5
Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker, stirring in the pimento-stuffed olives and chopped capers. Mix until well combined.
6
Finally, sprinkle the fresh chopped cilantro over the dish before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Cuban Ropa Vieja alone or with your choice of sides.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja?
It is a traditional Cuban shredded beef dish simmered with peppers and spices in a savory tomato base.
Why is it called Ropa Vieja?
The name translates to old clothes because the shredded beef resembles torn fabric.
What cut of beef is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 1.5 lbs of boneless beef chuck steaks for a tender result.
How long does it cook in the slow cooker?
It should cook for 8 to 10 hours on the low heat setting until the beef is fork-tender.
What size slow cooker is needed?
A large slow cooker of 3.5 quarts or larger is recommended for this recipe.
What are the main vegetables included?
The dish features cubanelle peppers and sliced onions as the primary vegetables.
Can I substitute cubanelle peppers?
Yes, green or red bell peppers can be used if cubanelle peppers are unavailable.
What makes up the tomato base?
A combination of tomato sauce and tomato paste creates the rich sauce.
What spices provide the flavor?
The dish is seasoned with ground cumin, minced garlic, salt, and a bay leaf.
Is vinegar used in this recipe?
Yes, one tablespoon of cider vinegar is added to provide a necessary touch of acidity.
Do I need to add water to the slow cooker?
No, the tomato sauce and the natural juices from the beef and vegetables provide enough liquid.
How do I shred the beef?
Once cooked, transfer the beef to a cutting board and use two forks to pull it apart into bite-sized pieces.
When are the olives added to the dish?
Pimento-stuffed olives are stirred into the slow cooker after the beef has been shredded.
What are capers used for in this recipe?
Chopped capers add a salty, briny depth to the finished Ropa Vieja.
How is the dish finished?
It is topped with fresh chopped cilantro before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
Is this recipe spicy?
It is savory and aromatic but generally mild and not considered spicy-hot.
What are the best side dishes to serve?
It pairs perfectly with white rice, black beans, or warm tortillas.
Can I cook this on the high heat setting?
Yes, you can cook it on high for about 4 to 5 hours, though low heat ensures maximum tenderness.
Is Ropa Vieja freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes very well in an airtight container for up to three months.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored safely in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.
Does the beef need to be browned first?
This specific slow cooker method does not require browning the beef before adding it to the pot.
What is the purpose of the bay leaf?
The bay leaf adds a subtle herbal depth and complexity to the sauce during the long cook.
Do I leave the bay leaf in the dish?
No, you should carefully find and discard the bay leaf after the cooking is complete.
Can I use flank steak instead of chuck?
Yes, flank steak is traditional, though chuck steak is used here for its excellent tenderness when slow-cooked.
Is there olive oil in this recipe?
Yes, one tablespoon of olive oil is included in the initial sauce mixture.
Can I add extra garlic?
Yes, you can increase the amount of minced garlic if you prefer a bolder garlic flavor.
Is this a good meal for large gatherings?
Yes, it is a hearty and heartwarming meal that is excellent for hosting or family dinners.
What kind of olives should I use?
Pimento-stuffed green olives are the traditional choice for this Cuban classic.
Can I omit the cilantro?
Yes, if you are not a fan of cilantro, you can omit it or substitute it with fresh parsley.
How many ingredients are in this version?
This recipe utilizes 14 ingredients to create its deep and complex flavor profile.