cuban style picadillo recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cuban style picadillo recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes, Cuban-style Picadillo. This hearty dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too. The name ‘Picadillo’ translates to ‘minced meat’ in Spanish, but don’t let that fool you – this recipe is so much more than just ground meat.

It’s a flavorful and aromatic blend of spices, herbs, and ingredients that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed streets of Havana. I remember my abuela used to make this dish for special occasions, like family gatherings and holidays. She’d spend hours in the kitchen, carefully chopping the onions, garlic, and bell peppers, and then slowly browning the beef in a large skillet.

The aroma would fill the entire house, and everyone would gather around the table, eager to dig in. One of the things I love about Picadillo is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main course, or as a side dish.

You can add it to rice, beans, or even use it as a topping for tacos or grilled meats. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you’ll be enjoying this delicious Cuban dish in no time. But what really sets Picadillo apart is its rich history and cultural significance. This dish has been passed down through generations of Cuban cooks, each one adding their own twist and flair.

And when you take a bite, you can taste the love and care that goes into every single ingredient. So why not give Picadillo a try? Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

Cuban Style Picadillo

4.8 from 1966 votes

Cuban Style Picadillo is a flavorful dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, olives, and a blend of spices. This hearty and comforting meal is perfect for a family dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Picadillo

1 lb ground beef
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
2 tbsp capers
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp raisins (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
3Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4Add ground beef to the skillet.
5Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
6Drain excess fat if needed.
7Stir in diced tomatoes, olives, capers, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
8Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9The mixture should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.
10If using raisins, add them to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
11Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: Serve picadillo with white rice and black beans for a traditional Cuban meal. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to ground beef.

I always say that Picadillo is the perfect recipe for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need something hearty for dinner.

And because it’s so easy to make ahead of time and reheat later, it’s perfect for busy weeknights too.

Simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban Style Picadillo

Q: What is Picadillo?

Picadillo is a traditional Cuban dish made with ground meat (usually beef or pork), onions, garlic, bell peppers, and a blend of spices.

Q: Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! While traditional Picadillo recipes call for beef or pork, you can also use chicken or even vegetarian options like tofu or tempeh.

Q: How do I serve Picadillo?

You can serve Picadillo as a main course, or as a side dish. It’s also delicious as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.

Q: Can I make Picadillo ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the ingredients up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Q: Is Picadillo spicy?

No! While some recipes may include hot peppers or spicy seasonings, traditional Picadillo is mild and suitable for all ages.

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