Mexican Picadillo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mexican Picadillo is a flavorful and comforting dish that features ground beef cooked with a mix of vegetables, raisins, olives, and spices. The combination of savory and sweet ingredients creates a deliciously unique taste that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or served over rice. This one-pot meal is easy to make and full of rich, hearty flavors, making it an ideal choice for both family dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Carrot, diced
Potato, peeled and diced
Tomatoes, chopped
Raisins
Green olives, sliced
Capers
Bell pepper, diced
Cumin
Paprika
Bay leaves
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Beef broth or water

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 8 minutes.
4. Stir in the carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, raisins, olives, capers, cumin, paprika, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour in the beef broth or water, ensuring the ingredients are just covered. Bring to a simmer.
6. Cover and cook for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and carrots are tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. Adjust seasoning as needed, and serve hot over rice or in tacos.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add a handful of chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor.
• For extra spice, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Include a diced apple for a sweet twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store Mexican Picadillo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, simply warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

What is the origin of Picadillo?
Picadillo is a traditional dish in several Latin American countries, including Mexico, where it is often served as a main dish with rice or tortillas.

Can I make Picadillo ahead of time?
Yes, Picadillo can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors even improve after sitting for a day or two.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or beans to create a vegetarian version.

What can I serve with Picadillo?
Picadillo is traditionally served with rice, but it also pairs well with tortillas, beans, or even in a burrito.

Can I freeze Picadillo?
Yes, you can freeze the Picadillo for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Mexican Picadillo is a versatile and flavorful dish that blends savory and sweet ingredients for a comforting meal. Whether you enjoy it in tacos, over rice, or with tortillas, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying, hearty meal with minimal effort.

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