Description
Vaca Frita, the Cuban classic, transforms tender flank steak into crispy, savory shredded beef bursting with vibrant garlic and citrus flavors. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The flank steak is marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice and garlic before being pan-fried to achieve that irresistible crunch. Served with fluffy white rice and seasoned black beans, Vaca Frita promises a delightful culinary experience that showcases the rich tastes of traditional Cuban cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs flank steak
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 6 tablespoons neutral oil (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon complete seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 medium white onion (sliced)
Instructions
- Boil the flank steak with bay leaves, salt, and water in a Dutch oven until tender (about 1–1.5 hours). Strain and set aside.
- Shred the cooked steak using forks.
- Marinate shredded beef with lime juice, oil, garlic, seasoning, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes.
- Heat remaining oil in a skillet; add marinated beef in batches without crowding.
- Pan-fry until crispy on each side (about 5 minutes per side).
- Sauté sliced onions with the cooked beef until softened.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Cuban
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg