---
title: Vaca Frita (Crispy Shredded Beef)
servings: 4
prep time: 15 minutes
cook time: 100 minutes
source: https://mycibora.com/recipes/vaca-frita
---

Gather @beef flank{800%g} and @ground cumin{1%tsp}.

Put the flank and one @onion{2}, quartered, in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil.

Simmer until the beef shreds easily with a fork, about 90 minutes. ~{90%minutes}

Drain, discard the onion, and shred the beef into rough strands while it's still warm.

Toss the shreds with the @lime{3} juice, @garlic{6%clove} and cumin; let them sit 10 minutes so the citrus works in. ~{10%minutes}

Heat the @olive oil{4%tbsp} in the heavy skillet until it's shimmering and just short of smoking.

Press the beef into a thin, even layer and DON'T move it until the underside crisps, 3–4 minutes. ~{4%minutes}

Flip in sections, scatter in the second onion's rings, and crisp the second side the same way, 3–4 minutes. ~{4%minutes}

Finish with a fresh squeeze of lime and serve hot with moros and sweet plantains.