Easy Ropa Vieja Stew

Ingredients

• 2 lb boneless beef chuck roast (cut in half)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 onions (large, coarsely chopped)
• 2 green peppers (large, coarsely chopped)
• 4 jalapeno peppers (seeded and minced)
• 1 habanero pepper (seeded and minced)
• 43.5 oz diced tomatoes (3 cans (14-1/2 ounces each), undrained)
• 0.5 cup water
• 6 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro (minced)
• 4 tsp beef bouillon granules
• 2 tsp pepper
• 1.5 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 0.5 cup pimiento-stuffed olives (coarsely chopped)
• Hot cooked rice (optional for serving)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large skillet, brown the halved beef chuck roast in olive oil on all sides over medium-high heat.

2. 2

   Transfer the browned meat to a 5-qt. slow cooker.

3. 3

   Add the coarsely chopped onions and green peppers to the slow cooker.

4. 4

   In a separate bowl, combine the undrained diced tomatoes, water, minced garlic, minced cilantro, beef bouillon granules, pepper, ground cumin, and dried oregano.

5. 5

   Pour the tomato and spice mixture over the vegetables and meat in the slow cooker.

6. 6

   Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is very tender.

7. 7

   Remove the beef from the slow cooker and let it cool slightly on a cutting board.

8. 8

   Skim any excess fat from the surface of the cooking juices remaining in the slow cooker.

9. 9

   Stir the chopped pimiento-stuffed olives into the cooking juices.

10. 10

    Shred the beef using two forks and return the shredded meat to the slow cooker.

11. 11

    Stir to combine and heat through before serving with hot cooked rice if desired.

Notes

Freezing Instructions: Transfer individual portions of stew to freezer containers and freeze. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally and adding a little water if necessary. Safety Tip: Wear disposable gloves when cutting hot peppers (jalapenos and habaneros); the oils can burn skin. Avoid touching your face.

Nutrition per serving

• main course
• slow cooker
• Cuban
• beef
• stew
• gluten-free
• dairy-free