Ingredients

1 bay leaf
2 lbs flank steaks
1 teaspoon salt ( to taste )
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup sour orange juice ( or 1/4 cup each lime and orange juices )
1/4 cup lime juice
4 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves , minced
2 medium onions , thinly sliced
Vaca Frita is a popular dish in Cuba and throughout Latin America. This dish consists of flank steak that is seasoned, cooked, and then shredded. The beef is then sautéed with garlic, onions, and sour orange juice until crispy. This dish is typically served with white rice, black beans, and a side of fried plantains. Traditionally this dish is made using sour orange juice, but this can be hard to find in some areas and can be substituted with a combination of lime and orange juice. This dish is perfect for any meal and can be enjoyed with family and friends.

Instructions

1.Add the bay leaf in a large pot with water. Let it boil and add the flank steaks, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30-45 minutes or until the meat is tender.
2.Remove from the heat and let it cool. Once cooled, slice the meat into thin strips - discard any large pieces of fat or gristle.
3.In a separate bowl, mix together the sour orange juice, lime juice, and minced garlic.
4.Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over high heat, add the thinly sliced onions, and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Add the sliced beef and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
5.Add the sour orange juice mixture to the skillet and continue to cook for 5-6 minutes or until the beef is crispy and the juices have reduced.
6.Serve the Vaca Frita hot with white rice and black beans.

PROS

Vaca Frita is a flavorful and easy to make dish that is perfect for any meal.

The beef is paired nicely with the sour orange and lime juices and garlic which provide the perfect amount of acidity and tang.

This dish is naturally gluten-free and packed with protein.

CONS

This dish requires some time and attention to properly prepare.

The flank steaks can be tough if not properly cooked and sliced.

Vaca Frita is not a low-calorie dish and should be enjoyed in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Vaca Frita is a high protein dish and a good source of iron and zinc.
Iron is important for transporting oxygen around the body while zinc has been known to boost immune function and support healthy skin.
Garlic may also have cardiovascular benefits and has been linked to reducing high blood pressure.

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