Ropa vieja is a classic Cuban dish that translates to “old clothes” in English. It’s a hearty, flavorful beef stew made with shredded flank steak, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices. The name “old clothes” refers to the way the tenderized beef shreds resemble old, worn-out clothing. Ropa vieja is often served with white rice, black beans, and fried plantains for a filling and delicious meal.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound flank steak
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar (optional)
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Shred the beef: Cut the flank steak into thin strips and place them in a large bowl. Add enough water to cover the beef and let it sit for about 30 minutes to tenderize.
2. Sear the onions: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and spices: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Then, add the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add tomato paste and broth: Stir in the tomato paste and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Shred the beef (again): Remove the Dutch oven from the heat and use two forks to shred the beef into thin strips.
6. Add shredded beef: Add the shredded beef back into the pot with the tomato mixture. Stir well to combine.
7. Simmer and thicken: Simmer the Ropa Vieja for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. If desired, add a splash of white vinegar to enhance the flavor.
8. Serve: Serve the Ropa Vieja hot over white rice, with black beans, fried plantains, and chopped cilantro leaves, if desired.