Name: Cuban Beef Picadillo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef (80/20); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup green olives, sliced; 1/2 cup raisins; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Cuban Beef Picadillo is not just a meal; it’s a flavorful experience that dances on your palate. This dish brings together the richness of ground beef with the sweet notes of raisins and the tang of olives, creating an unforgettable, savory-sweet harmony. Having cooked Picadillo countless times, I’ve honed the flavors to perfection and learned many helpful tips along the way.

Why Make This Recipe

Picadillo is a fantastic choice for several reasons:

Flavorful Delight: The combination of spices, sweet, and savory elements creates a uniquely satisfying meal.
Nutritional Value: Packed with protein from the beef and vitamins from the veggies, it offers a well-rounded dish.
Quick and Convenient: This meal comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Versatile Treat: It works wonderfully with rice, as a filling for empanadas, or even in tacos for a fun twist.
My personal favorite? The nostalgia it evokes; it reminds me of family gatherings where everyone enjoyed a hearty meal together.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty Level: Easy
This dish is primarily stovetop cooked, allowing robust flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the kitchen preparation simple.

My Experience Making This Recipe

In my journey of preparing Picadillo, I’ve faced a few challenges, like balancing the sweetness and savory aspects. However, I discovered that adjusting the amount of olives and raisins significantly changes the dish’s dynamic. Each time I make it, I find new ways to tweak the spices to suit my family’s preferences.

How to Make Cuban Beef Picadillo

Making Picadillo involves browning the beef, then simmering it with vegetables, spices, and unique ingredients like raisins and olives. Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add the beef until browned. Stir in the remaining ingredients and let everything cook down for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Expect a delightful aroma to fill your kitchen!

Expert Tips for Success

Choose Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef, around 80/20, for a nice balance of flavor and fat.
Sauté the Aromatics Well: Take your time to properly cook the onions and garlic. This will form the flavor base for your Picadillo.
Balance the Flavors: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or fewer raisins, and balance their flavor with a good pinch of salt.
Use Fresh Spices: Always use fresh spices for maximum impact. Ground cumin and oregano are essential for that authentic flavor.
Simmer the Mix: Don’t rush the simmering process; allowing it to sit helps to develop deep, rich flavors.

How to Serve Cuban Beef Picadillo

Serve your Picadillo over a bed of fluffy white rice to soak up the juices. You can also pair it with black beans and fried plantains for a complete Cuban meal. For a delightful presentation, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of sliced green onions.

Storage and Reheating Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’ve made a larger batch, it freezes well for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or microwave; add a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to introduce heat into the dish.
Sweet and Savory Twist: Experiment with adding a touch of ground cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
Mexican Flavors: Use taco seasoning instead of the traditional spices for a fusion twist.

Nutritional Highlights

Picadillo offers an excellent source of protein from the beef, along with iron and B vitamins. By utilizing lean meat, you can keep the dish a bit lighter. It’s also a potential allergen-free dish, being inherently gluten-free and dairy-free.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Too Sweet? If your Picadillo tastes overly sweet, add a little more salt or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.
Too Dry? If the mixture turns out dry, incorporate a small amount of beef broth or water as it simmers for added moisture.
Bland Flavor? Always remember to taste as you go; if you need a flavor boost, trust your instinct to add more seasoning!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Picadillo ahead of time? Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld. Simply reheat before serving.
Can I use a different protein? Yes, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even finely chopped mushrooms for a variation.
What kind of olives should I use? Green olives are traditional, but you can also use black olives for a milder flavor or if you prefer.
Is it traditional to serve Picadillo with rice? Yes, serving it with rice is the classic way, but feel free to get creative! It pairs well with various sides.

Enjoy making this delicious Cuban Beef Picadillo, and embrace the flavorful journey it brings to your dining table!

Cuban Beef Picadillo