Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this delightful Vaca Frita Recipe (Cuban Crispy Shredded Beef). This traditional Cuban dish features tender flank steak that is boiled until perfectly tender, then shredded and marinated in a zesty blend of garlic and fresh lime juice. After marinating, the beef is pan-fried to crispy perfection, providing a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether served with fluffy white rice, hearty black beans, or in tacos, this dish is versatile and sure to impress. Perfect for family gatherings or any special occasion, Vaca Frita is comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs flank steak
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (2 limes)
- 6 tablespoons neutral oil (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 1 tablespoon complete seasoning
- Salt + pepper to taste
- 1 medium white onion (thinly sliced)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large pot, add the flank steak, bay leaves, salt, and enough water to cover the meat. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat and cook at medium-low until the meat is tender, about 1 to 1.5 hours. If using a pressure cooker, this will take about 30-40 minutes.
- Strain the beef broth and save it for another recipe.
- Transfer the cooked flank steak to a platter. Using two forks or your fingers, shred the meat until you achieve that pulled look.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded meat with fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons of oil, minced garlic, complete seasoning, and salt + pepper to taste. Toss gently to mix well and marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat remaining oil over medium heat. Remove meat from marinade and discard marinade.
- Add shredded beef to skillet in an even layer; do this in batches if necessary. Pan-fry for 5 minutes undisturbed while pressing down with a spatula until crispy. Flip beef and pan-fry on the other side for another 4 minutes until sizzling and crisp.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in sliced onions and sauté with beef until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Serve your crispy shredded beef alongside white rice and black beans with lime wedges on the side.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, let the beef marinate longer. Fry in batches for optimal crispiness. Customize by adding spices or serving with your favorite sides.