How to Make Cuban Ropa Vieja Cooked in a Crock-Pot

beef flank steak

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: beef chuck

Beef chuck is more affordable and still tender when cooked slowly.

red wine

🥗Healthier: grape juice

💰Cheaper: beef broth

Grape juice adds sweetness without alcohol, while beef broth adds depth.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add sliced onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add beef flank steak to the pot; brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

Pour in red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Add tomato sauce, cumin, oregano, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper; stir to combine.

Cover the pot and reduce heat to low; simmer for 2-3 hours until beef is tender.

Remove beef from pot and shred with two forks; return to the pot.

Stir in chopped green olives and capers; simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; remove bay leaves before serving.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: