Authentic Cuban Ropa Vieja | Anitas Delights

flank steak

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: chuck roast

Chuck roast is more affordable and can be equally tender when cooked slowly.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Vegetable oil is often cheaper and has a neutral flavor.

green olives

🥗Healthier: kalamata olives

💰Cheaper: black olives

Black olives are less expensive and can provide a similar briny flavor.

red wine

🥗Healthier: non-alcoholic wine

💰Cheaper: beef broth

Beef broth can add depth of flavor without the cost of wine.

Add flank steak to a pot filled with water and cook for 2.5 hours until tender.

Shred the cooked meat into smaller pieces and remove any large pieces of fat.

In a separate pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.

Add chopped onions and peppers to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes until onions are soft.

Add sliced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Add spices (oregano, cumin, paprika) and Goya seasoning, then mix well.

Deglaze the pan with white wine and cook for 2 minutes.

Add tomato sauce and reserved cooking liquid from the meat, season with salt, and mix well.

Add cilantro, white wine vinegar, and bay leaf to the mixture.

Let the mixture cook for 30-40 minutes on medium heat to combine flavors.

Finish with olives and some brine, then mix well.

Serve with white rice and optional sides like avocado or plantain chips.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary