Make Cuban inspired Ropa Vieja effortlessly with our mini slow cooker recipe. Perfect for single servings, enjoy tender beef in a savory sauce with minimal effort.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time4 hourshrs
Total Time4 hourshrs15 minutesmins
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Spanish
Diet: , Low Lactose
Keyword: crockpot ropa vieja, ropa vieja, ropa vieja for one, slow cooker ropa vieja, small batch ropa vieja
Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the bottom of a 1.5 or 2-quart slow cooker.
In a separate small bowl, blend together the oregano, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper to create your seasoning mix. Keep this nearby for the next step.
Pat the chuck roast dry using paper towels, then generously coat all sides with the seasoning mix you just prepared.
Heat the oil in a 10 inch skillet over medium heat.Sear the seasoned roast in the skillet, aiming for a golden-brown crust, about 2 minutes per side. Once seared, transfer the roast to a plate.
Using a sharp knife, create two small slits about an inch deep on the top of the roast. Use your fingers to slightly widen these slits, then insert whole garlic cloves into the openings.Pro Tip: This method of inserting whole cloves of garlic infuses the meat with the delightful flavor of garlic. As the roast cooks, the garlic gradually seeps into the meat, imparting a savory richness that will delight garlic enthusiasts. The cloves themselves soften and mellow during cooking, providing a pleasing surprise in each bite. Studding the beef with garlic not only enhances the taste of the ropa vieja but also amplifies its appealing aroma.
Transfer the beef to the slow cooker, placing it on top of the previously layered vegetables.
In another small bowl, whisk the beef broth and tomato paste together until well mixed. Pour this liquid over the roast in the slow cooker.
Add the diced tomatoes and olives into the slow cooker.
Secure the slow cooker’s lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours.
After cooking, remove the roast and shred it using a fork. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker, stirring it into the juices and vegetables. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes to meld the flavors.Pro Tip: Be mindful that different brands of beef broth can vary in sodium levels, making some saltier than others. Always give the finished dish a taste test and adjust the salt as needed.Enjoy your Ropa Vieja on its own for a low-carb option, or pair it with rice to make the meal more hearty.
Notes
Before you start cooking, make sure to read the entire recipe, including the Ingredient Notes section, and examine the process photos. This detailed guide will help you understand how the recipe unfolds, ensuring your Crockpot Ropa Vieja turns out perfect every time. All the information you need is found within the body of this recipe post, so don’t miss a thing!
Searing Technique: When searing the beef, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the roast. Sear each side until it forms a deep, caramelized crust. This step seals in the juices and enhances the flavor of the final dish.
Garlic Insertion: While inserting garlic cloves into the beef, try to distribute them evenly throughout the roast. This ensures that the garlic flavor is evenly distributed as the beef cooks.
Slow Cooker Size: Ensure the slow cooker you use is the appropriate size for the recipe. A 1.5 or 2-quart slow cooker is ideal for a single serving, as it allows for proper heat distribution and thorough cooking.
Vegetable Placement: Placing the onions and bell peppers at the bottom of the slow cooker helps to create a flavorful base for the beef. The vegetables will soften and absorb the delicious juices as they cook.