bowl of picadillo

Here’s a hearty and flavorful bowl of picadillo, a Latin American comfort food classic made with ground beef, potatoes, and a savory-sweet tomato base. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect over rice, in tacos, or even eaten with a spoon straight from the bowl.

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🍲 Classic Picadillo Bowl

🧾 Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor, or leaner if preferred)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced (green or red)

• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced small

• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

• ½ cup beef broth (or water)

• ¼ cup raisins (for classic Cuban-style sweetness)

• ¼ cup green olives, sliced or whole (pimento-stuffed preferred)

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: 1 bay leaf, 1 tbsp capers, or 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

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🔥 Instructions:

1. Sauté aromatics:

   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

   • Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until soft (3–5 minutes).

2. Brown the beef:

   • Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add potatoes and spices:

   • Stir in diced potatoes, cumin, oregano, and optional bay leaf. Mix well.

4. Add tomato sauce and broth:

   • Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir to combine.

   • Add raisins and olives. Bring to a simmer.

5. Simmer and cook:

   • Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.

6. Taste and adjust:

   • Add more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar for brightness if desired.

7. Serve:

   • Spoon into a bowl and serve over white rice, with tostones, or inside warm tortillas.

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🍽️ Variations:

• Cuban Picadillo: Includes raisins and olives for sweet-savory contrast.

• Mexican Picadillo: May use diced carrots, peas, or chipotle for a spicier profile.

• Vegan/Vegetarian: Use lentils, tofu, or plant-based ground instead of beef.

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Let me know if you want a slow cooker, low-carb, or spicy version too!