Imagine walking into your kitchen to the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked Cuban flavors wafting through the air. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Havana. This Sunday Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings family and friends together around the table. Perfect for busy weekends, this recipe offers a delightful way to savor the rich, tender beef and aromatic vegetables without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 pounds flank steak
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the onion and bell pepper into thin strips, and mince the garlic cloves. Set these aside for later use.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the flank steak to the skillet. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it develops a nice brown crust. This step adds depth of flavor to the meat.
- After searing, transfer the flank steak to the slow cooker. Layer the sliced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic over the top of the meat.
- Open the can of diced tomatoes and pour it over the vegetables and steak in the slow cooker. Ensure that the tomatoes are evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle the cumin and oregano over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper to taste. These spices will infuse the dish with authentic Cuban flavors.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the ropa vieja to cook for 8 hours. This slow cooking process will tenderize the meat and meld the flavors beautifully.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the flank steak from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. It should be very tender and easily fall apart.
- Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker, mixing it with the vegetables and sauce. Stir well to combine and let it sit for an additional 10-15 minutes on the warm setting, allowing the flavors to meld further.
- Serve the ropa vieja warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. It pairs wonderfully with rice, black beans, or crusty bread. Enjoy your delicious Cuban meal!
Tips
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the flank steak before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor and adds depth to your dish.
- Prep Ahead: To make your cooking experience even smoother, prep your vegetables the night before. Slice the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic so you can just toss everything in the slow cooker in the morning.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
- Let It Rest: After shredding the meat, allow it to sit in the sauce for an extra 10-15 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together and make every bite even more delicious.
- Serving Suggestions: Ropa Vieja pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy rice, black beans, or crusty bread. Don't forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness!
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they can be used in a variety of dishes, such as tacos, burritos, or even a hearty sandwich. The flavors only get better the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 120mg
