Ingredients

2 1/2 lbs flank steaks , cut in 4 x 5 inch strips
all purpose adobo seasoning
3 tablespoons olive oil
6 cloves garlic , minced
2 1/2 cups finely diced onions
1 1/2 cups finely diced green peppers
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 can spanish style tomato sauce ( such as Goya )
1 jar sofrito sauce ( such as Goya )
3 cups water
1 packet sazon goya with coriander and annatto ( again , such as Goya )
1 packet beef bouillon ( I used about 1 tsp Better Than Bouillon Beef Base )
1 ounce jar capers , rinsed
10 large pimento-stuffed green olives , sliced
Cuban Meat Stew or Ropa Vieja is a traditional dish that originated from the Canary Islands and is now considered a national dish of Cuba. The name Ropa Vieja literally translates to 'old clothes', referring to the shredded appearance of the beef after cooking. It is a staple dish in many households, and variations of the recipe can be found throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. The use of pre-made sauces such as tomato sauce and sofrito can make this dish easier to prepare and more accessible for busy home cooks.

Instructions

1.Season the flank steak on both sides with adobo seasoning.
2.In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned flank steak and cook for about 3 minutes per side or until browned. Remove the steak from the pot and set aside.
3.In the same pot, add garlic, onions, and green peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes or until softened.
4.Add black pepper, tomato sauce, sofrito sauce, water, sazon goya, and beef bouillon. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
5.Reduce heat to low, add the cooked flank steak back into the pot, cover, and simmer for about 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
6.Remove the flank steak from the pot and shred using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot.
7.Add capers and sliced olives to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for additional 5 minutes until heated through.

PROS

Cuban Meat Stew or Ropa Vieja is a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

The use of flank steak makes it a relatively inexpensive recipe that can feed a crowd.

It can also be made ahead of time and reheated the next day.

CONS

This recipe has a relatively long cooking time which may not suit those with limited time or patience.

It may not be the best option for individuals on a low-sodium diet due to the use of beef bouillon and pre-packaged ingredients.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Cuban Meat Stew is a protein-rich dish that can provide a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
The use of vegetables such as onions and green peppers adds additional vitamins and minerals to the dish.
It can be paired with a side of whole-grain rice or quinoa for extra fiber and nutrients.

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