Discover the secrets of authentic ground beef picadillo (recipe and tips)

Picadillo, a beloved dish in many cultures, is a flavorful and versatile mix of ground beef, vegetables, and seasonings. Its origins can be traced back to Spain, where it’s typically made with beef or pork. In this blog post, we’ll embark on a culinary adventure and explore how to make ground beef picadillo, a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1/2 cup chopped olives
• 1/4 cup chopped raisins
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the Seasonings: Stir in the ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.

4. Incorporate the Tomato Products: Pour in the tomato sauce and tomato paste. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.

5. Add the Olives and Raisins: Stir in the chopped olives and raisins. Continue simmering for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

6. Serve: Serve the ground beef picadillo hot over rice, pasta, or your favorite side dish.

Variations

• Spicy Picadillo: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño to the sautéed vegetables for a kick of heat.
• Vegetarian Picadillo: Substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or tempeh for a meatless version.
• Sweet Picadillo: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the sauce for a slightly sweet flavor profile.

Tips for Success

• Use a lean ground beef for a healthier dish.
• Chop the vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables, as they should retain some crunch.
• Let the sauce simmer for at least 15 minutes to develop its flavors.
• Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Accompaniments

• Rice: Serve the picadillo over fluffy white or brown rice.
• Pasta: Toss the picadillo with cooked spaghetti or penne.
• Tortillas: Use the picadillo as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Beans: Add a side of black or pinto beans for a hearty meal.

The Bottom Line

Making ground beef picadillo is a culinary journey that rewards with a flavorful and versatile dish. Whether you’re serving it over rice, pasta, or as a taco filling, this recipe is sure to impress. Experiment with variations to create a dish that suits your taste buds perfectly. So gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing.

What People Want to Know

1. What is the difference between picadillo and taco meat?

• Picadillo typically contains a wider variety of vegetables and seasonings, while taco meat is usually seasoned with chili powder and cumin.

2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

• Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

3. How long does picadillo keep in the refrigerator?

• Picadillo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze picadillo?

• Yes, picadillo can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.

5. What are some other vegetables that can be added to picadillo?

• You can add chopped carrots, celery, or corn for additional flavor and texture.