Ground beef picadillo is a delightful dish that brings a medley of flavors to your table. This traditional Latin American recipe is not only satisfying but also provides a hearty meal for your family or guests. If you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner that packs a punch, this could be your new favorite go-to dish.
Imagine the aroma of seasoned ground beef mingling with sweet bell peppers, onions, and raisins, creating a beautiful balance of savory and sweet. This picadillo is perfect served over rice or enjoyed in tortillas, allowing you to customize each bite to your liking.
This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious. It’s versatile enough to suit various tastes, whether you prefer it mild or with a bit of spice.
An Invitation to Flavor
Ground beef picadillo is a dish that captures the essence of home-cooked meals. It offers a delightful combination of flavors that appeal to both the palate and the senses. The use of ground beef, complemented by tomatoes and olives, creates a dish that is rich in taste and texture.
The addition of raisins introduces a hint of sweetness that balances the savory notes, making each bite a nuanced experience. Served in a rustic bowl, this dish not only looks appealing but also evokes a sense of warmth and comfort, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Colorful Ingredients Come Together
This picadillo recipe features a vibrant medley of ingredients. The colorful presentation is eye-catching, with the deep reds of diced tomatoes and the green hues of olives and bell peppers standing out beautifully. Each ingredient plays a vital role in contributing to the overall flavor profile.
The ground beef serves as the hearty base, while the diced vegetables add freshness. Green olives introduce a salty tang that contrasts with the sweetness of the raisins. This interplay of flavors ensures that every forkful is bursting with character.
Cooking Techniques and Aromas
The process of preparing ground beef picadillo is straightforward yet rewarding. It begins with sautéing onions and bell peppers until they soften, releasing their natural sweetness and aromatic qualities. These foundational steps are essential for building flavor in the dish.
As the beef cooks and browns, it develops a rich depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish. The subsequent addition of spices like cumin and paprika further elevates the taste, making the kitchen fill with delightful aromas that promise a satisfying meal ahead.
Serving Suggestions
Ground beef picadillo is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Traditionally, it is enjoyed over a bed of fluffy white rice, allowing the savory juices to soak into the grains. This combination creates a comforting and filling meal that is hard to resist.
Alternatively, picadillo can also be served in warm tortillas for a delightful twist. The choice between rice or tortillas allows for personalization, making it suitable for any occasion. A garnish of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the dish further.
A Dish for Any Occasion
This ground beef picadillo is perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Its appealing flavors make it a popular choice among different age groups, ensuring that everyone at the table enjoys it.
Moreover, it can be made in larger batches, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. The dish keeps well in the refrigerator, allowing for easy reheating and enjoyment later in the week. This versatility adds to its charm, making it a staple in many households.
Nutritional Considerations
Ground beef picadillo not only satisfies the taste buds but can also be part of a balanced diet. With a good amount of protein from the beef and fiber from the vegetables and raisins, it offers a nutritious meal option.
While enjoying this dish, it is helpful to consider portion sizes, especially if served with rice or tortillas. The combination of flavors and textures ensures that it is a meal that feels indulgent without compromising on nutritional value.
A Hearty Ground Beef Picadillo Recipe
This ground beef picadillo is a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender ground beef cooked with tomatoes, olives, and spices. The combination of sweet and savory elements creates a satisfying experience that lingers on your palate. It’s a comforting meal that captures the essence of home cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or tortillas for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the Flavor: Stir in the diced tomatoes, green olives, raisins, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove from heat and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve the picadillo over cooked rice or in tortillas for a delightful meal.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
