Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of Cuba with this classic Vaca Frita recipe. Tender marinated beef is cooked until crispy and then sautéed with onions and citrus juices, creating a dish that's bursting with delicious Cuban flavors. This hearty and satisfying dish is a beloved favorite in Cuban cuisine.

VACA FRITA

DIFFICULTY: INTERMEDIATE



GALLERY                                                                                                                                                                  

INGREDIENTS                                                                                                                                                       

4 Persons

For the Vaca Frita:
  • 1.5 lbs flank steak or skirt steak
  • 1/4 cup sour orange juice (or a mix of orange and lime juice)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 lime, cut into wedges

INSTRUCTIONS                                                                                                                                                     

1) In a bowl, combine the sour orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.

2) Place the flank steak or skirt steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and let the meat marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

3) Preheat a grill or skillet over high heat. Remove the marinated meat from the bag and shake off excess marinade. Grill or sear the meat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely charred and cooked to your desired doneness.

4) Allow the meat to rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly against the grain.

5) In a separate skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are caramelized and slightly crispy.

6) Add the sliced beef to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Pour in the fresh lime juice and orange juice. Sauté the mixture until the beef is coated with the citrus juices and becomes crispy around the edges.

7) Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and cilantro.

8) Serve the Vaca Frita hot, garnished with additional chopped cilantro and parsley. Accompany with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving)                                                                                       

Calories: 320 kcal

Protein: 26g

Carbohydrates: 9g

Fat: 20g

Fiber: 1g

Sodium: 470mg

DURATION : 2 hours and 30 minutes (including marination)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

TRICK & TIP                                                                                                                                                           

Serve the Vaca Frita with classic Cuban sides like rice and black beans for a complete and authentic Cuban meal. Adjust the level of citrus juices and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.