Picadillo

Picadillo – savory Cuban ground beef dish
Cuba
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Picadillo is a beloved Cuban dish made from ground beef, olives, and raisins, offering a unique blend of savory and sweet flavors. It holds cultural significance as a comfort food often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations. Typically served with rice and beans, it's a staple in Cuban households.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup capers
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add Flavorings

Add the sliced green olives, raisins, tomato sauce, white wine, capers, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon. Stir to combine.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the flavors are well combined and the sauce has thickened.

Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Picadillo?

Picadillo is a traditional Cuban dish made with ground beef, vegetables, olives, and raisins, creating a delicious balance of flavors.

Where does Picadillo come from?

Picadillo originates from Cuba and has roots in Spanish cuisine, adapting over time to reflect local tastes and ingredients.

What are the main ingredients in Picadillo?

Key ingredients include ground beef, onions, red bell pepper, garlic, green olives, raisins, and tomato sauce.

How long does Picadillo take to make?

Picadillo takes about 45-55 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Picadillo?

Picadillo is commonly served with white rice, black beans, and fried plantains for a well-rounded meal.