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Ropa vieja
Simmer beef in salted water with a bay leaf 90 minutes until it shreds. Lift, shred, keep a cup of broth.
Questions about this dish
Answers taken from this dish's times, amounts, swaps and tips โ not a chatbot.
How long does Ropa vieja take?
2 hr 45 min all in โ 15 min prep, 2 hr 30 min cook. Cook and rest follow the method. Leftover storage and optional extra waits are not included.
How many does it serve?
The recipe is written for 6 people. Scale the ingredient list on the page if you are cooking for a different number.
How hard is it?
Easy.
How spicy is it?
No chilli.
Does it fit a diet?
The published recipe is labelled Dairy-free, Gluten-free.
What does it cost to cook?
Weeknight budget โ about $8โ16 USD, as a grocery budget for this recipe, not a restaurant price.
What equipment do I need?
Dutch oven, Frying pan.
How much salt do I put in?
The recipe lists Salt at 1ยฝ tsp.
What can I use instead?
Flank โ Chuck or leftover pot roast. Same sofrito. Still shred.
Any tips from this recipe?
A pressure cooker cuts the simmer to 35 minutes. Yesterday's pot is louder. Reheat with a splash of broth.
Can I prepare this ahead?
Yesterday's pot is louder. Reheat with a splash of broth.
Can I use an air fryer?
This method is not written for an air fryer. The core technique on the page still applies.

