Vaca Frita Recipe

vaca frita recipe

Craving a taste of authentic Cuban cuisine? Look no further than this mouthwatering vaca frita recipe. This dish is a popular choice for those who love the crispy, flavorful goodness of shredded beef. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen.

Vaca Frita Recipe

Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of sour orange juice
– 1/4 cup of lime juice
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions Step by Step:
1. Start by boiling the flank steak in a large pot of water until it is fully cooked and easy to shred. This should take about 2-3 hours.
2. Once cooked, shred the beef into small pieces using two forks.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded beef with the sour orange juice, lime juice, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Heat some vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
6. Add the marinated beef to the skillet and cook until it is crispy and browned on the edges.
7. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Once the beef is crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a serving platter.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
10. Enjoy your homemade vaca frita with rice, black beans, and fried plantains for a complete Cuban meal.

Tips:
For a twist on this classic recipe, you can add bell peppers, tomatoes, or jalapeños to the mix for some extra flavor.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat.
Vaca frita can also be served with a side of Cuban bread or on top of a bed of lettuce for a lighter option.

In conclusion, vaca frita is a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. With its crispy texture and bold flavors, it’s the perfect choice for a special dinner or a casual weeknight meal. Give this recipe a try and transport your taste buds to the streets of Havana with every bite.