Traditional Cuban Bistec en Cazuela

Cuban-Style Braised Beef Steak

Cuban-Style Braised Beef Steak is one of those grandmother’s recipes that wins over the palate with its deep aroma and juicy texture. This Cuban version combines traditional spices with a touch of red wine and olives, creating a flavorful and unforgettable dish. Here we show you how to prepare it step by step.

🥩 Main ingredients:

  • 500 g beef steak (premium-quality cut)
  • ½ green bell pepper
  • ½ red bell pepper
  • 1 whole onion
  • 5 cloves of garlic
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • Sour orange juice (enough to marinate)
  • ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 150 g tomato purée
  • 100 ml dry red wine
  • 1 sprig of thyme
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • A handful of pitted green olives
  • 2 bay leaves

 

 

🕰️ Step 1: Marinating the meat

Place the steaks in a container and season them with sour orange juice, salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, and half of the garlic (crushed). Cover and let marinate for at least 8 hours in the refrigerator.

🍳 Step 2: Searing the steaks

Heat the oil in a large casserole. Remove the steaks from the marinade, drain them well, and sear them on both sides until sealed. Set aside.

🧄 Step 3: Sauté and sauce

In the same casserole, sauté the onion and bell peppers cut into strips, along with the remaining garlic sliced. Add the sweet paprika and the tomato purée. Cook, stirring, for 2–3 minutes.

Add the red wine, thyme, olives, and sugar, and mix well. Cook over low heat for 8 minutes so the flavors can blend.

🔥 Step 4: Final cooking

Return the steaks to the casserole. Add the bay leaves and a little of the marinade liquid if desired. Cook covered over medium heat for 25 to 30 minutes. Then turn off the heat and let rest for at least 10 minutes before serving.

ℹ️ Additional information:

  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Preparation time: 8–10 hours (marinating) + 30 minutes (prep) + 35 minutes (cooking) + 10 minutes (resting)
  • Category: Meats
  • Cuisine: Cuban

🍽️ Chef’s suggestion:

Serve this flavorful steak with white rice, boiled sweet potato, or yuca with mojo. A glass of the same wine used in the cooking turns it into a celebration-worthy lunch.

Did you try this recipe? Tell us about your experience in the comments. Did you add your own personal touch? We’d love to know!

🏷️ Tags: Braised Beef Steak, Cuban cuisine, Creole recipes, braised beef, traditional Cuban dishes, Cuban stews, traditional food

For the Spanish version, visit: Bistec en Cazuela al Estilo Cubano – Receta Tradicional con Todo el Sabor Criollo.