High Protein Ropa Vieja

Transform your dinner routine with this hearty and delicious High Protein Ropa Vieja, a healthier twist on the classic Cuban dish. Packed with tender, slow-cooked beef flank steak simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, this recipe incorporates black beans and chickpeas for an added protein boost, making it a satisfying, nutrition-packed meal. The vibrant medley of onions, red and green bell peppers, and aromatic spices like cumin and oregano enhances the depth of flavor, while fresh cilantro adds a burst of brightness to every bite. Perfect for meal prep or a comforting family dinner, this high-protein recipe is both wholesome and packed with bold, authentic flavors. Serve it over rice or alongside warm tortillas for a complete, protein-rich meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:180 mins

Total Time:200 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef flank steak
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves minced garlic
• 14.5 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 bay leaves
• 15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 15 ounces chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

Step 1

Season the beef flank steak with salt and black pepper on both sides.

Step 2

In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Step 3

Sear the beef on both sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to medium. Add onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Step 5

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, cumin, oregano, black pepper, salt, and bay leaves.

Step 6

Return the beef to the pot, submerging it in the sauce. Bring to a simmer.

Step 7

Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Step 8

Remove the beef from the pot, and use two forks to shred the meat.

Step 9

Return the shredded beef to the pot, add black beans and chickpeas, and stir to combine.

Step 10

Simmer for an additional 10 minutes to heat the beans thoroughly.

Step 11

Remove bay leaves, and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3041.3 grams (3041.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3332

Total Fat 128.30g	164%
Saturated Fat 40.90g	205%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 635mg	212%
Sodium 8039mg	350%
Total Carbohydrate 233.30g	85%
Dietary Fiber 71.60g	256%
Total Sugars 49.30g
Protein 324.90g	650%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 731mg	56%
Iron 52mg	288%
Potassium 7803mg	166%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.1%

Protein: 38.4%

Carbs: 27.5%