Jonathan Rice June 26, 2026

This post may contain affiliate links, please see our Disclosure for details.

Old Clothes – Cuban Shredded Beef

Name: Old Clothes – Cuban Shredded Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h 20 min
Total time: 8 h 35 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 2-3 pounds flank steak; 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning; 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips; 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips; 1 large yellow onion, sliced into strips; 6 large garlic cloves, peeled and chopped; ½ cup green Spanish olives (optional); 28-ounce can of tomato puree; 6-ounce can of tomato paste; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon white sugar; 1 teaspoon salt

✨ Family Favorite Digital Cookbook

Love This Recipe? You'll Love the Next 100.

Discover 100 cozy family recipes with beautiful full-color photos and easy step-by-step instructions—perfect for everyday home cooking.

✓ 100 Easy Family Recipes
✓ Beautiful Full-Color Photos
✓ Easy Step-by-Step Instructions
✓ Instant PDF Download

Get the Cookbook →

Instant Download • Only $19.99

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Old Clothes – Cuban Shredded Beef is a dish that seems to embrace you with warm flavors and vibrant aromas. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this comforting meal offers a taste of Cuba, steeped in tradition and rich history. With its tender, shredded beef and savory sauce, it creates a delightful experience that’s simply irresistible. To round out your meal, serve it over fluffy rice or alongside some delicious Cuban bread, making every bite a celebration of flavor.

Reasons to Love Old Clothes – Cuban Shredded Beef

This dish is a wonderful combination of fresh ingredients and spices that bring a burst of flavor with every bite. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love preparing this:

The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
It’s perfect for meal prep and can easily feed a crowd.
It’s a great way to introduce new tastes and experiences to your kitchen.

The use of lean flank steak makes this version of Old Clothes both hearty and wholesome, and the combination of peppers, onions, and spices creates a delightful medley that is both aromatic and nourishing.

What You’ll Need

Before you dive into making this delicious Cuban dish, gather the following ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the depth and richness that Old Clothes is known for. Here’s what you’ll need:

2-3 pound flank steak
1 tablespoon adobo seasoning
1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
1 large yellow onion, sliced into strips
6 large garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
½ cup green Spanish olives (optional)
28-ounce can of tomato puree
6-ounce can of tomato paste
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp white sugar
1 tsp salt

The blend of sweet and savory elements ensures that your dish will be a hit at the table. Don’t forget to include some fluffy rice to soak up that delicious sauce!

Bringing It Together

Cooking Old Clothes – Cuban Shredded Beef is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to prepare this delightful dish:

Rub the flank steak with adobo seasoning, ensuring it’s evenly coated to absorb all the flavors.
Place the seasoned flank steak into your slow cooker, creating a base layer for the other ingredients.
Add the sliced green and red bell peppers, yellow onion, and garlic to the slow cooker. The colors will create a beautiful visual appeal as they cook down.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato puree, tomato paste, cumin, oregano, sugar, and salt until thoroughly mixed.
Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker, covering the steak and vegetables evenly.
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, allowing the meat to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Once cooked, remove the flank steak from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and then return it to the pot for an additional 20 minutes of cooking.
Serve the shredded beef over rice, drenching it in the extra sauce to make every bite pure bliss.

Prep ~ 15 min, Cook ~ 8 hours 20 min, Total ~ 8 hours 35 min, Servings ~ 6, Kcal ~ 350.

Make-Ahead and Prep Tips

One of the best aspects of Old Clothes – Cuban Shredded Beef is that it can be prepared in advance. You can season and slice the beef a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop your vegetables early, making for quicker preparation later. When you’re ready to cook, simply layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work. Also, leftover shredded beef can be stored for a few days in the refrigerator for quick meals later on.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your delicious Old Clothes fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3 to 4 days. If you want to prolong its life, you can freeze the shredded beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, checking for doneness to ensure it’s warmed through without drying out.

Perfect Pairings

Enhancing your Old Clothes experience is easy with the right accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions for what goes well with this dish:

Fluffy white rice to soak up the sauce
Fried plantains for a sweet contrast
A fresh green salad to balance the richness
Crunchy Cuban bread for additional texture
Black beans for added protein and flavor
Sliced avocados for a creamy touch

Variations and Swaps

You can truly make Old Clothes your own with some fun variations. Here are a few ideas:

Swap flank steak for ground beef for a quicker cooking method.
Add in diced carrots or zucchini for extra veggies and nutrition.
Experiment with different spices like paprika or cayenne to change the flavor profile.
Incorporate other types of olives or add capers for a briny twist.
For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or other hot peppers.
Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option that still delivers great taste.
Use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato puree for a chunkier texture.
Serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Old Clothes turns out perfectly every time:

Make sure to sear the meat briefly on all sides before cooking for enhanced flavor.
Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to keep the heat and flavor locked in.
Allow the shredded beef to rest for a few minutes before serving; it helps with texture.
Adjust the seasoning after shredding if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to check for tenderness; you want it to be tender enough to shred easily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, cuts like chuck roast or brisket work well too, although they may require a bit of adjustment in cooking time.
Is it possible to cook this recipe in a pressure cooker?
Absolutely! If using a pressure cooker, cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes, followed by a natural release.
What can I do with leftovers?
You can repurpose leftovers into tacos, burritos, or pasta dishes for a new meal.
Can this dish be served cold?
While it’s traditionally served hot, you can enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches if preferred.
Is Old Clothes suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes beautifully; just make sure to store it in airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

Final Thoughts

Old Clothes – Cuban Shredded Beef is not only a delightful recipe that brings a taste of tradition into your kitchen, but it is also a versatile and forgiving dish that can be tailored to your preferences. Its savory aromas and rich flavors make it a family favorite, perfect for any occasion. So why not gather your ingredients and create this heartwarming meal soon? You and your loved ones will surely be enchanted by its taste and charm. If you’re looking for comforting options to complement your meals, be sure to explore delicious beef barley soup or try out some cheesy beef biscuit bombs for the ultimate flavorful experience!