Best Picadillo Recipe – A Flavorful Ground Beef Dish
Table of Contents
A Taste of Tradition
Imagine stepping into a kitchen filled with the rich aroma of sizzling onions, garlic, and ground beef, mingling with the warmth of cumin and oregano. Picadillo is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural experience, a nostalgic memory, and a staple of Latin American and Filipino cuisine. Whether it reminds you of home-cooked meals from childhood or it’s your first time exploring this traditional recipe, you’re in for a treat.
This savory, slightly sweet, and deeply satisfying dish is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it over a steaming plate of white rice, stuffed into tacos, wrapped in empanadas, or even eaten straight from the pan. But what truly makes Picadillo stand out is its unique blend of flavors and regional variations that cater to different tastes and preferences.
In this guide, you will learn everything about making an authentic Picadillo recipe from scratch, including the best ingredients, step-by-step instructions, serving ideas, and variations from different cultures. Let’s dive into this timeless recipe that has been passed down through generations!
What is Picadillo Recipe?
Picadillo is a classic ground beef hash dish that originated in Spain and has been embraced across Latin America and the Philippines. The name “picadillo” comes from the Spanish word picar, meaning “to mince” or “to chop,” referring to the finely ground meat used in the dish.
Each region has added its own twist to the recipe:
- Cuban Picadillo is slightly sweet, featuring raisins and green olives for a unique balance of flavors.
- Mexican Picadillo often includes diced potatoes and carrots, making it heartier.
- Filipino Picadillo sometimes incorporates hard-boiled eggs and is served with steamed rice.
Despite these variations, the essence of Picadillo remains the same: a rich, meaty dish seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked with tomatoes and vegetables to create a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients for an Authentic Picadillo Recipe
Main Ingredients
To make an authentic Picadillo, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients:
- Ground beef – The star ingredient, preferably lean beef for a balanced texture.
- Tomatoes or tomato sauce – Adds depth and a rich, tangy base.
- Onions, garlic, and bell peppers – The aromatic trio that builds the flavor.
- Olives, raisins, and capers – Provides the signature salty-sweet contrast.
- Latin spices (cumin, oregano, bay leaves) – Essential for authentic seasoning.
Picadillo Recipe Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb (450g) | Can substitute with turkey |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced | Adds sweetness |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Enhances flavor |
| Tomatoes | 2 medium, chopped | Or use canned tomato sauce |
| Bell pepper | 1, chopped | Red or green works |
| Green olives | ½ cup, sliced | Adds saltiness |
| Raisins | ¼ cup | Optional, for sweetness |
| Bay leaves | 2 | Enhances aroma |
| Cumin & Oregano | 1 tsp each | Classic Latin spices |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
How to Make Authentic Picadillo Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef: Add ground beef and cook until it turns brown, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add Vegetables & Tomatoes: Stir in bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices. Let everything cook until the tomatoes soften.
- Simmer & Season: Add olives, raisins, bay leaves, and a splash of water or broth. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Adjust & Serve: Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with rice or as a filling.
Tips for the Best Picadillo Recipe
- Use lean ground beef to avoid excessive grease.
- Let the dish simmer to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adjust the sweet-savory balance by modifying the olive and raisin ratio.
Variations of Picadillo Recipe
Cuban vs. Mexican vs. Filipino Picadillo
| Type | Unique Ingredients & Features |
|---|---|
| Cuban | Includes raisins and olives for a sweet-savory contrast |
| Mexican | Adds potatoes and chili peppers for extra heartiness and spice |
| Filipino | Often contains hard-boiled eggs and served over rice |
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Serve with white rice for a traditional experience.
- Use as a filling for tacos, burritos, or empanadas.
- Pair with black beans, plantains, or avocado slices for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 12g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Picadillo made of?
Picadillo is made with ground beef, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, olives, and Latin spices, with variations depending on the region.
Can I make Picadillo ahead of time?
Yes! Picadillo tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Picadillo?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for ground beef in Picadillo?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier option.
What makes Cuban Picadillo different?
Cuban Picadillo features raisins and green olives, giving it a unique sweet-savory balance.
Conclusion
Picadillo is a dish that brings comfort, nostalgia, and an explosion of flavors with every bite. Whether you prefer it Cuban-style with raisins and olives, Mexican-style with potatoes and spice, or Filipino-style with eggs and rice, this dish never disappoints.
Now that you have all the tips, variations, and techniques to make an authentic Picadillo recipe, it’s time to get cooking! Try it out and let us know in the comments how you enjoyed your homemade Picadillo. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
