Go Back
–+ servings
Cuban Shredded Beef

Cuban Shredded Beef

Discover the rich flavors of Cuban Shredded Beef, a hearty dish perfect for gatherings. Learn how to make this tender, flavorful Ropa Vieja today.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.4 kg beef flank, shoulder, or brisket
  • 1 unit onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 unit green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 unit red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 unit yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 3 teaspoons sweet paprika
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 500 ml beef broth
  • 1 can (410 g) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 cup sliced green olives optional
  • 2 tablespoons capers
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Tongs
  • Wooden spoon
  • Two forks for shredding
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Pat the beef dry and sear on all sides until browned; then set aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté onions and bell peppers until softened, about 7–10 minutes.
  4. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, allspice, and cloves; cook for about a minute.
  5. Pour in beef broth, crushed tomatoes, oregano, and bay leaves; return the beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for about 2 hours.
  7. Remove the beef, shred using two forks, and return it to the sauce along with olives and capers.
  8. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes; then stir in apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For deeper flavor, consider marinating the beef in olive oil, garlic, and spices for an hour before cooking. Cuban Shredded Beef freezes well for up to 3 months; always use airtight containers and reheat gently on the stovetop. Serve with traditional sides like rice, black beans, and plantains for an authentic experience. If you like it spicier, feel free to add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeños!
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!