Get ready to taste the rich and flavorful world of Ropa Vieja! This iconic Cuban dish, also known as “old clothes” due to its shredded beef appearance, has become a staple in many Latin American cuisines. With its tender meat, vibrant spices, and tangy tomato sauce, it’s no wonder why Ropa Vieja is a crowd-pleaser for every occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a comforting meal, this versatile dish has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouth-watering Ropa Vieja recipes that will satisfy your taste buds and inspire your cooking skills. From classic Cuban twists to innovative fusion dishes, we’ve got everything from tacos to empanadas, and even pizza! Which one will be your new favorite?
Classic Cuban Ropa Vieja with Bell Peppers
Ropa vieja, which translates to “old clothes” in Spanish, is a beloved Cuban dish made by shredding tender beef into strips that resemble torn fabric. This recipe adds a pop of color and sweetness with bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds flank steak
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the beef to the pot and stir to coat with the sauce. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 hours or until tender.
7. Shred the beef into strips and serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja with Olives
Ropa vieja, which translates to “old clothes” in Spanish, is a popular Cuban dish made by shredding slow-cooked beef into thin strips. This recipe adds a salty twist by incorporating olives and is perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket or flank steak
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the beef to a slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and olives.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred the beef with two forks and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Spicy Ropa Vieja with Jalapeños
This Cuban-inspired dish gets a bold boost from the addition of jalapeños, adding a spicy kick to the tender shredded beef. Serve it with rice and beans for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef brisket or flank steak
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 cup beer (optional)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season the beef with salt, pepper, oregano, and paprika.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Sear the beef until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes).
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
5. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before shredding with two forks.
6. In a large saucepan, combine the jalapeños, onion, garlic, beer (if using), and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Add the shredded beef to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spicy tomato mixture.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes (including oven time)
Ropa Vieja Tacos with Avocado Crema
Experience the flavors of Cuba with these tender Ropa Vieja tacos, served with a creamy and refreshing Avocado Crema.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound beef shank or short ribs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 corn tortillas
• Avocado Crema (see below)
• Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced radishes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add beef shank or short ribs; brown on all sides. Add broth, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until tender.
3. Shred beef with two forks. Warm tortillas by wrapping in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded beef onto tortillas.
Avocado Crema:
Mash 2 ripe avocados with 1 lime juiced, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 minced clove of garlic. Stir in 2 tablespoons sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (ropa vieja) + 10 minutes (tortillas)
Ropa Vieja Stuffed Peppers
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the flavors of ropa vieja (shredded beef in tomato-based sauce) with bell peppers for a delicious and colorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ropa vieja (shredded beef in tomato-based sauce)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat the ropa vieja over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each pepper with the beef mixture, followed by cooked rice and paprika.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ropa Vieja Empanadas with Flaky Crust
Ropa Vieja, a traditional Cuban dish, gets a creative makeover in this empanada recipe. Shredded beef in a rich tomato sauce is wrapped in a flaky crust and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
For the filling:
– 1 pound shredded beef (ropa vieja)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the dough:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine beef, tomato sauce, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares, about 5 inches per side.
4. Place 1 tablespoon of filling in the center of each square. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or a rectangle, pressing edges to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ropa Vieja Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this savory and sweet combination, featuring tender Ropa Vieja (shredded beef) and caramelized onions on a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded beef (ropa vieja)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium heat with olive oil and garlic powder until golden brown.
4. Spread shredded beef evenly over the pizza crust, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Top with caramelized onions and mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ropa Vieja Sliders with Pickled Red Onions
Transform the flavors of Ropa Vieja, a traditional Cuban dish, into bite-sized sliders perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering. The addition of pickled red onions adds a tangy and refreshing twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or flank steak
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 slider buns
– Pickled red onions (recipe below)
– Optional: chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Pickled Red Onions:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Slice the beef into thin strips.
5. Assemble sliders by placing beef onto buns.
6. Top with pickled red onions and optional cilantro or lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ropa Vieja Nachos with Melted Cheese
Experience the flavors of Cuba on a plate with this twist on traditional nachos, featuring tender shredded beef known as Ropa Vieja. This recipe combines the rich meat with melted cheese, crispy tortilla chips, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the flank steak in a slow cooker with olive oil, garlic, beef broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper for 8-10 hours or until tender.
3. Shred the cooked beef into strips.
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
5. Spoon shredded Ropa Vieja over the chips, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Top with sliced jalapeño pepper and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) + 10-12 minutes (oven)
Ropa Vieja Quesadillas with Pico de Gallo
Discover the rich flavors of Cuba and Mexico combined in this delicious recipe for Ropa Vieja Quesadillas with Pico de Gallo. Shredded beef, onions, garlic, and spices come together to create a tender filling, wrapped in crispy tortillas and served with a tangy and spicy pico de gallo.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or flank steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pico de Gallo (see below)
– Optional: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and sour cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate the beef in olive oil, onions, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Shred the cooked beef with two forks.
3. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle shredded beef onto half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.
7. Serve with Pico de Gallo and optional garnishes.
Pico de Gallo:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ropa Vieja Rice Bowl with Black Beans
This recipe combines the tender flavors of Ropa Vieja (shredded beef) with creamy black beans, flavorful rice, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Ropa Vieja (shredded beef)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked Ropa Vieja, black beans, and rice to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ropa Vieja Soup with Plantains
Ropa Vieja Soup with Plantains is a rich and comforting Latin-inspired dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the tender flavors of shredded beef with the sweetness of plantains, all wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 ripe plantain, peeled and sliced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the flank steak and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Add the beef broth, water, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
4. Stir in the sliced plantain and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the plantains are tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Ropa Vieja Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Cuban-style shredded beef (ropa vieja) with a decadent garlic butter sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta. A comforting and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb rupa vieja (shredded beef)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add rupa vieja to the skillet, stirring to combine with garlic butter. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the rupa vieja mixture, ensuring pasta is well coated.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ropa Vieja Sandwich with Crispy Bread
Get ready to transport your taste buds to Cuba with this mouthwatering Ropa Vieja sandwich, featuring tender shredded beef, crispy bread, and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Ropa Vieja (shredded beef in tomato-based sauce)
– 4 slices of Cuban-style bread (or substitute with Italian or French bread)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the Cuban-style bread in half lengthwise.
3. Spread a layer of olive oil on each slice, followed by a pat of softened butter.
4. Spoon the Ropa Vieja over the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ropa Vieja Casserole with Sweet Potatoes
This casserole combines the flavors of traditional Ropa Vieja, a Cuban dish made with shredded beef and tomatoes, with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or flank steak
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook beef in oil until browned; add tomatoes and simmer for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, bake sweet potatoes at 400°F for 45 minutes, or until tender.
4. Assemble casserole by layering cooked beef, sweet potatoes, tortillas, and cilantro in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Ropa Vieja Arepas with Cotija Cheese
This recipe combines the rich flavors of ropa vieja (shredded beef) with crispy arepas and crumbly Cotija cheese, perfect for a snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked ropa vieja
– 2 cups cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup grated Cotija cheese
– Optional: butter, salsa, or sour cream for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a comal or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cornmeal, salt, and baking powder.
3. Gradually add warm water to the mixture, stirring until dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size.
5. Cook each arepa for 4-5 minutes per side, or until crispy and slightly charred.
6. Warm the ropa vieja by simmering it in a little water or microwaving it briefly.
7. Assemble the arepas by spreading shredded beef onto one half of each arepa, then topping with Cotija cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ropa Vieja Tamales with Corn Husks
Ropa Vieja Tamales with Corn Husks Recipe
Ropa vieja, a classic Cuban dish, gets a creative twist by wrapping tender beef and flavorful sauce in homemade tamales using corn husks. This recipe is a delightful fusion of traditional tamale-making and rich Ropa Vieja flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Maseca corn masa harina
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1 pound beef brisket or shank, cooked and shredded
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Corn husks (about 24-30)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the tamale dough by mixing masa harina, warm water, and shortening in a bowl until smooth.
2. Soak corn husks in water for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, combine shredded beef, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. To assemble tamales, lay a corn husk flat with the stem end facing you. Place about 1/2 cup of tamale dough in the center, followed by a spoonful of Ropa Vieja filling.
5. Fold the sides and then roll the tamale up, starting from the stem end. Repeat for each tamales.
6. Steam tamales over boiling water for 45-60 minutes or until the masa is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ropa Vieja Breakfast Hash with Fried Eggs
Start your day off right with a twist on traditional breakfast fare – Ropa Vieja, also known as “old clothes” in Spanish, is actually a popular Cuban dish made from shredded beef. In this recipe, we’re giving it a breakfast makeover by serving it alongside crispy fried eggs and a tangy slaw.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Ropa Vieja (shredded beef) warmed with tomato sauce
– 2 cups hash brown potatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced potatoes, red bell pepper, and yellow onion. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Warm the Ropa Vieja according to package instructions.
4. Fry eggs in butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Serve the hash with fried eggs on top of the Ropa Vieja.
6. Cooking time: approximately 30-40 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 flavorful Ropa Vieja recipes! From classic Cuban dishes to innovative twists, this collection has something for every occasion. Savor traditional Ropa Vieja with bell peppers, or try it slow-cooked with olives and spices. Experiment with spicy jalapeños, or add some crunch with crispy bread. You can even turn it into a taco, pizza, nacho, quesadilla, rice bowl, soup, pasta, casserole, arepa, tamale, or breakfast hash! With so many options, you’ll never get bored of this delicious shredded beef dish.
