Slow cooker ropa vieja –Hey y’all, today we’re diving into a classic dish that will make your taste buds sing: Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja! This tender and flavorful Cuban beef dish is perfect for those laid-back days when you want something delicious with minimal effort. Let’s get into it and create a meal that’s good for the soul!
Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja
What’s better than a dish that cooks itself while you go about your day? This Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja is a set-it-and-forget-it masterpiece that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:
- 3 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
- First things first, heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season that flank steak with salt and pepper, then sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s browned. This step adds all the flavor, y’all!
- Once your steak is nicely browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. Add in the sliced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic right on top of the beef.
- Now, let’s add some love! Pour the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, red wine (if using), red wine vinegar, cumin, oregano, and paprika over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Mix it all up a bit.
- Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 8 hours, or high for 4 hours. Let that magic happen, and walk away!
- Once the timer goes off, take the beef out and shred it with two forks. It should fall apart effortlessly! Mix it back into the sauce and let it simmer for another 15 minutes if you have the time.
- Serve it hot, topped off with fresh cilantro, and don’t forget your favorite sides like rice, black beans, or fried plantains!
There you have it! A comforting dish that not only fills the belly but warms the heart. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Ropa Vieja and make sure to share the love with family and friends. Happy cooking!