Beef picadillo is a comforting and flavorful dish that hails from Latin American and Spanish cuisine. Known for its blend of ground beef, tomato and a medley of spices, Picadillo is a versatile dish that can be served over rice, used as filling for tacos, empanadas or stuffed peppers or enjoyed as a hearty meal on its own. The subtle sweetness from raisins balances beautifully with the briny olives, creating a harmonious mix of savory and sweet flavor. Whether for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying.
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INGREDIENTS:
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? 2 tbsp olive oil
? 1 medium onion, finely chopped
? 3 garlic cloves, minced
? 1 lb ground beef
? 1 tsp ground cumin
? 1 tsp smoked paprika
? 1 tsp chili powder
? ? tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
? 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
? 1 tbsp tomato paste
? ? cup beef or chicken broth
? ? cup raisins
? ? cup green olives, sliced
? 2 tbsp capers (optional)
? 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
? Salt and black pepper to taste
? Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
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INSTRUCTIONS:
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1. Saut¨¦ Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, saut¨¦ing until softened and fragrant, about
3-4 minutes.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbled, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Spices: Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cinnamon (if using). Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
4. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Simmer with Raisins and Olives: Stir in the raisins, olives, and capers (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Add Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet, cover, and let cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce
has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
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SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
Serve Beef Picadillo over steamed rice, with warm tortillas, or as a filling for empanadas. Pair it with a simple salad or fried plantains for a complete
meal. Enjoy this classic dish that brings warmth and tradition to your table!
