Picadillo is a delicious and hearty dish that’s often made with ground beef, tomatoes, raisins, olives, and a variety of spices. It’s a comfort food popular in many Latin American countries, including Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. Here’s a simple and flavorful recipe for homemade Picadillo:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped (green or red)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup green olives, chopped (or Spanish olives with pimentos)
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or toasted pine nuts (optional for added texture)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional for extra warmth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or white vinegar (adds acidity)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, cinnamon, oregano, and ground cloves (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer with Tomatoes: Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, raisins, olives, capers (if using), and bay leaf. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Vinegar and Adjust Seasoning: Stir in the vinegar to balance the flavors. Taste the Picadillo and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more vinegar if desired.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Picadillo is traditionally served with white rice and sometimes fried plantains on the side.
Tips:
- Sweetness Level: The raisins add a natural sweetness that complements the savory flavors. If you prefer a less sweet dish, you can reduce or omit the raisins.
- Meat Options: Ground pork or a mix of ground beef and pork is another classic variation. For a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken works well.
- Serve with: A side of black beans, rice, or fried plantains pairs perfectly with Picadillo.
Enjoy your homemade Picadillo!