The aroma of sizzling beef mingling with the sweet scent of sautéed onions can only mean one thing: it’s time for a comforting bowl of Picadillo. This delightful dish, brimming with vibrant flavors and textures, is sure to transport you back to family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious home-cooked meals. Imagine the savory notes of ground beef, the subtle sweetness of raisins, and a hint of spice that dances on your palate, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
Picadillo is not just food; it’s a celebration on a plate! Whether enjoyed on a cozy weekend or served at a festive gathering, this dish brings warmth and connection. I can still hear my grandmother’s laughter echoing through the kitchen as she prepared her secret recipe, filling our home with love and the promise of mouthwatering flavors.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Picadillo is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings
- The bold flavors create a delightful taste experience that everyone will love
- With its colorful ingredients, this dish looks as good as it tastes
- Versatile enough to serve over rice or in tacos, Picadillo can adapt to any meal occasion
I once made Picadillo for a dinner party and watched my friends’ eyes light up after their first bite; it was pure magic!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Onion: Use a yellow onion for its mild sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add an aromatic punch that elevates the dish beautifully.
- Bell Peppers: A combination of red and green peppers adds color and crunch to your Picadillo.
- Tomato Sauce: Choose high-quality tomato sauce for rich flavor and moisture in the recipe.
- Raisins: These little gems provide a surprising sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.
- Cumin: A staple spice in Latin cuisine, cumin adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Olives: Green olives bring a briny touch that complements the sweet ingredients wonderfully.
- Bay Leaves: These leaves infuse your dish with subtle herbal notes as it simmers.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors in your Picadillo.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, cooking until they soften and release their inviting aromas.
Browning the Beef: Increase heat slightly and add ground beef into the skillet. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with a spatula; this helps achieve even cooking.
Add Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in minced garlic, tomato sauce, raisins, olives, cumin, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes until well combined.
Adjust Seasoning & Texture : Taste your Picadillo! Adjust seasoning if needed; you might want more salt or pepper depending on your preference.
Serve & Enjoy!: Remove bay leaves before serving hot over rice or wrapped in tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired!
Cooking should be fun! Feel free to get creative by adding other ingredients like diced potatoes or carrots based on what you have on hand.
With every bite of Picadillo, you’re not just tasting delicious food but also indulging in memories filled with love and joy—a true comfort dish perfect for any occasion!
You Must Know
- Picadillo is not just a dish; it’s a flavor-packed adventure!
- The sweet and savory notes create a delightful symphony in your mouth
- Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish brings everyone together with its comforting aroma and homey vibes
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef, allowing it to develop rich flavors. Meanwhile, sauté onions and garlic for a fragrant base before adding tomatoes and spices.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Picadillo by adding diced potatoes or olives for extra texture and flavor. Experimenting with spices can also elevate this classic dish!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Picadillo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your Picadillo extra flavorful, consider letting it simmer longer
- This allows all the spices to meld beautifully
- Always taste as you go; adjustments can elevate the final dish significantly
- Don’t skip browning the meat properly for that rich depth of flavor!
Sometimes I whip up Picadillo when I’m feeling nostalgic, and it never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table.
FAQ
What is Picadillo?
Picadillo is a traditional Latin American dish made with ground meat and various seasonings.
Can I make Picadillo ahead of time?
Absolutely! It tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge.
What sides go well with Picadillo?
Serve it with rice, plantains, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
Picadillo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Experience the comforting embrace of a traditional Picadillo, a savory Latin American dish that blends ground beef with sweet raisins, aromatic spices, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe captures nostalgia with each bite. Serve it over rice or in tacos for a versatile meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers (mix of red and green), chopped
- 1 cup high-quality tomato sauce
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup green olives, sliced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
- Increase heat slightly, adding lean ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Stir in minced garlic, tomato sauce, raisins, olives, cumin, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Remove bay leaves before serving hot over rice or wrapped in tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Latin American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
