_Sips wine while typing_
Oh my goodness, ladies and gentlemen, let me tell you about this absolutely divine Latin dish that’s going to make your taste buds dance the salsa! Today, I’m sharing my grandmother’s secret recipe for Ropa Vieja – a Cuban-style shredded beef that’s literally translated to “old clothes” (don’t worry, we’re not actually cooking clothes 😉).
Let me tell you, this isn’t your basic weeknight dinner. This is the kind of meal that makes your neighbors “accidentally” stop by right around dinner time because the aroma is just that irresistible. Trust me, I’ve had it happen!
What You’ll Need (shopping list time, dolls!):
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 2 colorful bell peppers (I use red and yellow because we eat with our eyes first!)
– 1 large onion
– 4 cloves of garlic (or more, I won’t judge)
– 2 cups crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup white wine (one for the pot, one for the chef 💁♀️)
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp oregano
– Olive oil, salt, and pepper
Okay, honeys, let’s get cooking! (And if you’re loving this already, make sure to follow me on Newsbreak for daily recipe inspiration that’ll make your family think you secretly went to culinary school!)
The Magic Method:
1. First, season that beautiful piece of meat generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy – we’re not counting calories today!
1. In a large pot, sear the meat until it’s golden brown on both sides. This is where the magic begins, darlings.
1. Add enough water to cover the meat, toss in those bay leaves, and let it simmer for about 2 hours until it’s fork-tender. (Perfect time to catch up on your favorite show!)
1. While the meat is doing its thing, slice those peppers and onions into strips. Pro tip: pour yourself that glass of wine now – you’ve earned it!
1. Once the meat is tender, shred it with two forks. It should pull apart like butter – absolutely gorgeous!
1. In the same pot (hello, fewer dishes!), sauté those veggies with garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. Add the wine, tomatoes, and spices.
1. Return the shredded meat to the pot and let everything mingle for about 30 minutes. The sauce should reduce and become rich and heavenly.
Y’all, this dish is giving me life! Serve it over white rice with some fresh avocado on the side, and you’ve got yourself a meal that would make any abuela proud!
Loving this recipe? Honey, there’s plenty more where that came from! Don’t forget to follow me on Newsbreak for more mouthwatering recipes that’ll have your family fighting over leftovers. And pretty please, drop a comment below telling me how this turned out – I live for your kitchen success stories!
_Adjusts apron with sass_
The best part? This recipe actually tastes better the next day (if it lasts that long!). I’ve literally had friends offer to help me meal prep just to get their hands on some of this goodness.
Remember, cooking is about having fun and adding your own flair. If you want to throw in some extra garlic or spice it up with some jalapeños, you do you, boo!
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with this Ropa Vieja and a glass of Rioja. Don’t forget to follow me on Newsbreak for more recipes that’ll make you feel like a kitchen goddess! Drop those comments below – I want to hear all about your cooking adventures! 💃🏽✨
XOXO,
Your favorite food-obsessed friend
