Savory Picadillo Recipe: A Flavorful Family Favorite

When the scent of savory spices wafts through the air, you know something extraordinary is cooking. Imagine tender beef mingling with tomatoes, olives, and a hint of sweetness, creating a symphony of flavors in your mouth. That’s picadillo for you—a dish that not only fills your belly but warms your heart.

I remember the first time I made picadillo for my family. Their eyes lit up with anticipation as the aroma danced around the kitchen. It quickly became a staple at our dinner table, perfect for cozy weeknights or festive gatherings. If you’re ready to explore this culinary gem, prepare yourself for an unforgettable flavor experience.

I still chuckle when I recall my friend’s reaction after her first bite of my picadillo; she declared it was “better than therapy” and promptly asked for seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option while maintaining that juicy texture.

• Onion: Choose a medium onion; it adds flavor and sweetness to the dish.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they bring an aromatic punch that enhances every bite.

• Bell Peppers: Opt for vibrant colors like red or green to add sweetness and visual appeal.

• Tomato Sauce: A rich tomato sauce ties all the ingredients together beautifully.

• Green Olives: These add a briny depth of flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness.

• Raisins: They offer a delightful contrast with their sweetness amid the savory ingredients.

• Cumin and Oregano: Essential spices that bring warmth and earthiness to the mix.

• Bay Leaf: A single bay leaf infuses subtle flavor during cooking.

• Salt and Pepper: Always season to taste; it’s key to elevating all those delicious flavors!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sautéing Aromatics: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, stirring until they become soft and fragrant.

Add Garlic & Beef: Toss in minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef browns completely, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon while it sizzles.

Incorporate Tomatoes & Spices : Pour in tomato sauce along with cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well to blend those lovely flavors together.

Add Sweetness with Olives & Raisins : Mix in chopped green olives and raisins. Let everything simmer gently so those sweet and savory notes meld beautifully.

Simmer & Serve : Reduce heat to low and let your picadillo simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened slightly. Serve hot over rice or wrapped in warm tortillas.

Now you’re ready to dive into this delicious adventure! Enjoy every flavorful bite of your homemade picadillo—your family will be asking for seconds before they even finish their first plate!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef, then add onions and garlic for flavor. Once they soften, stir in bell peppers and spices before adding tomatoes. This sequence builds layers of flavor, ensuring your picadillo sings with taste.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option. Adding olives or raisins can enhance the sweetness and introduce a unique flavor twist. Customizing allows you to make the dish your own!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover picadillo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat while stirring occasionally to maintain moisture and avoid drying out.

Cooking picadillo always reminds me of family gatherings, where everyone shares their favorite variations and offers unsolicited but well-meaning advice on how to make it “just like abuela’s.”

FAQ

What is picadillo traditionally made of?

Picadillo is made with ground meat, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and spices.

Can I make picadillo ahead of time?

Absolutely! Picadillo tastes even better after resting overnight in the fridge.

What can I serve with picadillo?

Serve it with rice, plantains, or tortillas for a delicious meal experience.

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Picadillo

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Picadillo is a comforting Cuban dish that blends savory ground beef with sweet raisins and briny olives, creating an unforgettable flavor experience. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With its rich aroma and colorful presentation, picadillo is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Serve it over fluffy rice or wrapped in warm tortillas for a satisfying meal your loved ones will cherish.

• Author: Ethan Carter
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Cuban

Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• ½ cup green olives, chopped
• ¼ cup raisins
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
2. Stir in minced garlic and ground beef; cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Add tomato sauce, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and bay leaf; mix well.
4. Incorporate chopped olives and raisins; simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until thickened.
5. Serve hot over rice or wrapped in tortillas.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg