The Best Instant Pot Ropa Vieja | Cuban Shredded Beef Recipe |

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make authentic Cuban Ropa Vieja using an Instant Pot. This flavorful dish, which translates to "old clothes," transforms tough cuts of meat into a tender and delicious meal. With this step-by-step guide, you'll create a one-pot dinner that's easy to make and even better as leftovers.

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

• Choose your beef cut:
  • Use 2 pounds of flank steak.
  • Alternatives include brisket or chuck roast (cut in half lengthwise if using chuck).
• Season the meat:
  • Sprinkle approximately 1 teaspoon of kosher salt on both sides of the meat.
• Sear the meat:
  • Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function.
  • Once heated, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  • Sear the meat for about 3 minutes on each side until browned.
• Remove the meat and turn off the sauté function.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• Add vegetables:
  • Slice 1 yellow onion and half of each a green and red bell pepper.
  • Press sauté again (set to low) and add the sliced vegetables to the pot.
• Deglaze the pot:
  • Stir the vegetables for about 6 minutes until translucent.
  • Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon, adding a splash of water if necessary to lift any browned bits.
• Add garlic:
  • Incorporate 3-4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
• Turn off the sauté function.

Step 3: Make the Braising Liquid

• Combine liquid ingredients:
  • In a bowl, whisk together:
    • 3/4 cup water
    • 1/3 cup of white wine (cooking wine is fine)
    • 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
    • 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • Add 2 heaping tablespoons of tomato paste, mixing well to avoid burn notices.
• Pour the liquid into the Instant Pot over the sautéed vegetables.
• Add additional ingredients:
  • Include one jar of diced pimentos (with liquid) and stir.
  • Place the seared steak on top of the liquid.
  • Add a can of diced tomatoes on top of the beef.
  • Place 2 bay leaves on top.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Ropa Vieja

• Seal and cook:
  • Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to the sealed position.
  • Press the pressure cook button and set the timer for 45 minutes.
• Allow natural pressure release:
  • After cooking, leave the pot undisturbed for 25 minutes to release pressure naturally.

Step 5: Shred the Beef and Finalize the Dish

• Remove bay leaves and shred:
  • Take out the bay leaves.
  • Transfer the beef to a bowl and shred it using two forks.
• Thicken the sauce (optional):
  • If desired, set the Instant Pot to sauté to reduce the liquid while you shred the meat.
• Return shredded beef to the pot:
  • Mix the shredded beef back into the sauce and taste for seasoning.

Conclusion

You've successfully made Instant Pot Ropa Vieja! This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers rich flavors that improve as leftovers. Enjoy it with rice, beans, or tortillas. For the next steps, consider trying different cuts of meat or experimenting with additional spices to customize the recipe to your taste. Happy cooking!