When you think of comfort food, what comes to your mind? A steaming pot of Picadillo simmering away on the stove can instantly transport you to a place of warmth and nostalgia. Imagine the rich aroma of ground beef mingling with sweet bell peppers, onions, and spices wafting through the air. Creamy Avocado Egg Salad refreshing Mediterranean Chickpea Salad Each bite takes you on a flavorful journey filled with savory goodness and a hint of sweetness that dances on your palate. Crispy Smashed Potato Salad.
This Picadillo recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. Picture yourself serving it over a bed of fluffy rice while everyone gathers around the table, eager to dig in. Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts Trust me; this dish will have your loved ones asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Picadillo recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
- Its complex flavor profile combines savory and sweet, pleasing every taste bud
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a filling for tacos or empanadas
Every time I serve this Picadillo at family gatherings, I see my grandma’s eyes light up with joy. It’s like bringing back a piece of her kitchen into our home. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy flavor without being too greasy.
- Onion: A medium yellow onion works best; it adds sweetness as it cooks down.
- Bell Peppers: Red or green bell peppers add crunch and color; feel free to mix them!
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish with aromatic richness. For more inspiration, check out this Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan recipe.
- Cumin: This warm spice is essential—don’t skip it! It gives authentic depth.
- Olives: Green olives provide briny notes that contrast beautifully with meatiness.
- Tomato Sauce: A good-quality tomato sauce binds everything together; go for low-sodium if possible.
- Raisins: These little gems add surprising sweetness; they’re optional but highly recommended!
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top brightens the flavors at serving time.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Get ready to create some culinary magic!
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onion and bell peppers finely while mincing fresh garlic. Gather all your spices in one spot—it makes cooking smoother!
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Once hot, add onions and cook until translucent—about 4 minutes—then toss in garlic for another minute.
Add Ground Beef: Increase the heat slightly and add ground beef to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it up while cooking until browned—this should take about 6-8 minutes.
Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in chopped bell peppers along with cumin, salt, pepper, and olives. Cook until the veggies soften—about 5 minutes—releasing their tantalizing aroma!
Create the Sauce: Pour in tomato sauce and add raisins if using. Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until flavors meld together beautifully.
Add Final Touches: Just before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for that vibrant finish. Serve hot over rice or use as filling for tacos.
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish! Each forkful bursts with flavor, making every bite worth celebrating!
You Must Know
- This classic Picadillo recipe combines rich flavors and textures for a comforting dish
- It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing friends
- The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Cuban restaurant, inviting everyone to gather around the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet, then add vegetables and spices sequentially for optimal flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add olives and raisins for an authentic twist that enhances sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your Picadillo unforgettable, use fresh herbs for brightness
- Always taste as you go, adjusting flavors to your liking
- Don’t rush the cooking process; a bit of patience makes all the difference in developing depth of flavor
Sharing this recipe reminds me of my first attempt at making Picadillo for friends; they devoured it, and I felt like a culinary rockstar!
FAQ
What can I serve with Picadillo?
Pair it with rice or plantains for a complete meal that balances flavors beautifully.
Can I make Picadillo ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a day before enhances its flavors as it sits overnight.
Is Picadillo spicy?
The heat level varies; adjust spices according to your preference for mild or spicy dishes.
Delightful Picadillo: A Cozy Comfort Food
Indulge in the rich flavors of Picadillo, a comforting dish that combines ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic spices. Each bite offers a beautiful blend of savory and sweet notes, making it a perfect centerpiece for family dinners or casual gatherings. Serve it over fluffy rice or as a filling for tacos to elevate your mealtime experience. This recipe is not just about food; it’s about bringing loved ones together around the table for a heartwarming culinary journey.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers (red or green), chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1 cup tomato sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare by chopping the onion and bell peppers while mincing the garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté onions until translucent (about 4 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Increase heat slightly and add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon (6-8 minutes).
- Stir in the chopped bell peppers, cumin, salt, pepper, and olives. Cook until veggies soften (about 5 minutes).
- Pour in the tomato sauce and add raisins if using. Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes to meld flavors.
- Just before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top and serve hot over rice or use as taco filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
