What is Picadillo?
Picadillo is a savory and slightly sweet dish that originated in Spain and has since become a staple in many Latin American countries. It typically consists of ground meat (often beef), onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a variety of spices and seasonings. Picadillo is often served over rice or used as a filling for empanadas, tacos, or stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Push the browned beef to one side of the skillet and add another tablespoon of olive oil to the empty space. Add the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper, and sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice. Add the cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer and Add the Finishing Touches
Reduce the heat to low and let the picadillo simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. During this time, add the raisins and sliced green olives. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the picadillo has simmered to perfection, it’s ready to be enjoyed! Serve it over a bed of rice or use it as a filling for empanadas, tacos, or stuffed peppers. The choice is yours!
There you have it, a simple and delicious picadillo recipe that will surely become a regular in your cooking repertoire. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and add-ins to make it your own. Enjoy!