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Cuban Shredded Beef

Cuban Shredded Beef

Discover the magic of Cuban Shredded Beef, a flavorful family favorite. Learn how to make this tender, aromatic Ropa Vieja dish with easy steps and expert tips.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 pounds beef (flank, chuck roast, or brisket)
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, 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
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 cup green olives, sliced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons capers
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Tongs
  • Two forks
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add the onions and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 7–10 minutes.
  3. Toss in the garlic, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, allspice, and cloves. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, and bay leaves. Stir together, return the beef to the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours.
  5. Remove the beef, shred with two forks, then return it to the pot. Stir in the olives and capers and let simmer for another 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in the vinegar, season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 31gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 20mg

Notes

This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth if necessary. For longer storage, freeze in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Customize the beef choice based on availability or preference; pork shoulder or chicken thighs are good alternatives. Serve over rice, in tacos, or alongside black beans and plantains for a complete meal. Don’t skip the fresh cilantro garnish for added brightness!
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