Vaca frita | Cuban fried shredded beef

flank steak

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: chuck roast

Chicken is lower in fat and cost-effective.

lime juice

🥗Healthier: vinegar

💰Cheaper: lemon juice

Vinegar adds acidity with fewer calories.

black beans

🥗Healthier: kidney beans

💰Cheaper: pinto beans

Kidney beans are nutritious and affordable.

fried plantains

🥗Healthier: baked plantains

💰Cheaper: potatoes

Baked plantains reduce oil use and calories.

Prepare the adobo seasoning by mixing 3 tablespoons of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground white pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.

Mix the dry ingredients well and store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

Peel and crush 5 cloves of garlic, then set aside.

Peel 1 onion, cut it in half, and then into cubes, and set aside.

Roll the lime to make it easier to juice, then cut it in half.

Cut the flank steak into pieces for marinating.

In a bowl, mix the adobo seasoning, cumin, oregano, black pepper, olive oil, and lime juice to taste.

Place the pieces of meat, onion, and garlic in a container, add the seasoning, and mix well.

Cover and refrigerate to marinate for a few hours or overnight.

Remove the meat from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes.

In a heated pan with oil, add a few pieces of the meat and sear until golden on one side, then turn and continue the process with the rest of the meat.

Once all the meat is browned, add it back to the pan with the marinade, bay leaves, coriander, thyme, and enough water to cover the meat.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 2 to 3 hours until the meat is tender.

In a frying pan with oil and butter, add all the sliced onions and sauté until lightly browned.

Add the ground garlic cloves and continue sautéing until ready, then set aside.

Once the meat is tender, shred it with two forks on a cutting board, adding some of the cooking liquid to the shredded meat and mixing well.

In a frying pan with oil and butter, add part of the shredded meat and fry over medium to high heat, stirring constantly until golden and crispy.

Continue frying the remaining meat.

Serve the fried beef with sautéed onions and garlic, or mix them with the meat, and garnish with lemon slices and a good dose of lime juice.

Serve with rice, black beans, and fried bananas.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: