Yesterday was a busy day for us, and I had the perfect meal planned. In the morning I volunteered at the homeschool group, after lunch was a doctor appointment, and in the evening was swimming. The crock pot called.

So I made an easy family-friendly Cuban meal: Ropa Vieja. It's simple, and flavorful. I've made it for a while and can't remember where I found the recipe in the first place. The whole family tends to love it. Although last night my 3.5 year old decided there was something funny about the large slices of onion. Next time I'll slice them smaller.

Ropa Vieja

1-1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 pound beef flank steak
1/2 cup water
1/2 tsp beef better than bouillon
1/2 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
1/2 small onion, sliced
Bell pepper, in strips (I like tri color)
1 clove garlic, chopped
1/2 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro
1-1/2 teaspoons olive oil
1-1/2 teaspoons white vinegar

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the flank steak on each side, about 4 minutes per side.

Transfer beef to a slow cooker. Pour in the water, better than bouillon, and tomato sauce, then add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, tomato paste, cumin, cilantro, olive oil and vinegar. Stir until well blended. Cover, and cook on High for 4 hours, or on Low for up to 10 hours. When ready to serve, shred meat and serve with tortillas, rice, and black beans.