Instant Pot Ropa Vieja

Name: Instant Pot Ropa Vieja
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 1 cubanelle pepper (or 1/4 green bell pepper or 1/2 jalapeno); 1 teaspoon salt (reduce if using low sodium broth); 2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons Adobo seasoning; 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano; 1 teaspoon low-sodium beef bouillon; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 1 clove garlic); 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/2 onion, diced; 3 pounds chuck roast, cut into large chunks; 1/4 cup cooking oil; 1 cup low-sodium beef broth; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1/2 cup white onion, sliced; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 green pepper, sliced; 1 red pepper, sliced; 1 cup Spanish olives, with juice; 1 tablespoon minced cilantro

By:

Marry

Published:

February 27, 2026

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Ropa Vieja, a beloved traditional Cuban dish, finds its modern twist in the form of Instant Pot Ropa Vieja, making it a breeze to prepare. Imagine tender, shredded beef, simmered in a velvety, flavorful sauce, all made in a fraction of the time you’d typically spend. The Instant Pot takes this classic recipe and gives it a quick yet delightful spin without compromising on that deep, rich flavor we all crave.

On busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this recipe stands out as a comfort food that fills the belly and warms the heart. Each ingredient plays its part, creating a symphony of tastes that transports you to a cozy Cuban kitchen. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend more time with loved ones, letting the Instant Pot do the heavy lifting while you enjoy a glass of wine or catch up on your favorite show. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious journey of flavors with Instant Pot Ropa Vieja!

Why This Recipe Works

Ropa Vieja is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition. The name translates to “old clothes,” a nod to the long strands of shredded beef that resemble rags. With the Instant Pot, this classic dish gets a modern makeover. It not only cuts down cooking time but also locks in the flavors better than traditional methods. The result? Beautifully tender meat that falls apart with a fork, immersed in a savory sauce that sings of onions, peppers, and a medley of spices. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to bring this restaurant-quality dish home.

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Ropa Vieja

Picture this: it’s a hectic Tuesday evening, and you’re worn out from the day’s chaos. You want to serve your family something hearty, delicious, and fulfilling without spending hours in the kitchen. This Instant Pot Ropa Vieja comes to the rescue. With minimal prep work and straightforward steps, you can set it and forget it while it works its magic. The rich flavors from spices, olives, and vegetables meld into a comforting dish that will quickly find a permanent spot on your weekly meal rotation. It’s not just food; it’s a family bonding experience.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your culinary adventure:

1 cubanelle pepper (or 1/4 green bell pepper or 1/2 jalapeno)
1 teaspoon salt (reduce if using low sodium broth)
2 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons Adobo seasoning
1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
1 teaspoon low-sodium beef bouillon
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 1 clove garlic)
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 onion, diced
3 pounds chuck roast, cut into large chunks
1/4 cup cooking oil
1 cup low-sodium beef broth
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 cup white onion, sliced
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 green pepper, sliced
1 red pepper, sliced
1 cup Spanish olives, with juice
1 tablespoon minced cilantro

How to Prepare Marinade for Ropa Vieja

Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, mix together all the marinade ingredients, making sure to coat the beef chunks thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it hang out in the fridge. It’s fantastic to let it marinate for at least one hour, but if time permits, allowing it to sit for up to 24 hours will really deepen the flavors.

How to Cook Ropa Vieja in the Instant Pot

Once your beef is marinated and ready to go, take it out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 10 minutes. Now, it’s time to heat things up! Turn on the Instant Pot and select the sauté setting. Pour in the cooking oil, and brown the chunks of beef, working in batches of 4 to 5 pieces at a time. This browning step is crucial, as it locks in all those delicious juices. After browning each batch, remove the beef and set it aside.

How to Combine Ingredients for Ropa Vieja

Now, let’s combine everything to let that flavor really shine. Add the reserved marinade back into the Instant Pot, nestling the browned beef right inside. Secure the lid, ensuring it’s locked tight, and set the Instant Pot to the meat setting for 45 minutes. This is where the magic happens.

How to Achieve Perfectly Shredded Beef

Once the timer goes off, it’s time for a careful release of the pressure. When you open the pot, you’ll be greeted with the aroma of rich, savory beef. Remove the meat and set it on a cutting board. Now for the fun part—shred the beef with a couple of forks until it’s perfectly fluffy. Next, toss in the remaining ingredients, excluding the cilantro, and give it a good stir to combine.

How to Thicken the Sauce

Now that your beef is shredded and mingling with the other ingredients, it’s time to enhance that sauce. Return the Instant Pot to the sauté mode and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This step thickens the sauce beautifully, intensifying the flavor even further. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Final Steps for Serving

Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, return the shredded beef back to the pot, stirring it gently. Now, let it sauté for an additional 10 to 30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld. Serve up your Instant Pot Ropa Vieja on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread, garnished with freshly minced cilantro for that pop of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

To round out your meal, why not pair your Ropa Vieja with some comforting fluffy white rice or rich black beans? Warm tortillas are another fantastic accompaniment, perfect for scooping up that tender beef. Adding a side salad or fried plantains can elevate your feast to the next level, giving each bite a little extra love.

Tips for Success

For deeper flavor, consider marinating the beef overnight.
Cut the beef into uniform chunks; this helps it cook evenly.
Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding or reducing the Adobo seasoning as per your taste.

Variations

Mix it up! If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute beef with chicken or try a plant-based protein. It adds a unique twist. Don’t be shy about tossing in extra vegetables like carrots or zucchini; they bring a delightful crunch and added nutrition to your dish.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is a rare occurrence with this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving to enjoy every flavorful bite.

Pairing Ideas

As you serve your Instant Pot Ropa Vieja, consider bringing in a light, refreshing salad. Crusty bread is always a winning option, soaking up that delicious sauce. And if you’re in the mood for a beverage, a mojito can complement your meal beautifully.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Of course! Brisket or flank steak works well too, though cooking times may vary.

2. How do I make it less spicy?
Just reduce the amount of Adobo seasoning and jalapeno.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and it often tastes even better the next day.

4. What can I serve with Ropa Vieja?
It pairs wonderfully with rice, plantains, or even atop mashed potatoes if you’re craving something new.

5. Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! Swap the beef for lentils or jackfruit to create a fantastic vegetarian alternative.

This Instant Pot Ropa Vieja recipe is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on your plate. It brings the comfort of traditional flavors into your home with the convenience of modern cooking. Perfect for any occasion, this delightful dish is sure to become a cherished recipe, bringing family and friends together around the table time and time again.