Ah yes — Picadillo 🍛 — a classic comfort dish in many Latin cultures! It’s a savory ground beef hash with a slightly sweet, tangy flavor, perfect for dinner. Here’s a simple, authentic recipe.
Picadillo for Dinner
Ingredients (4 servings)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup green olives, sliced
- ¼ cup raisins (optional, for slight sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, traditional in some versions)
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (optional)
- 2–3 tbsp capers (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the aromatics
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft and fragrant. - Brown the meat
Add ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
Break up large chunks with a spatula. - Add seasonings & tomatoes
Stir in cumin, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper.
Add tomato sauce, mix well. - Add sweet & salty extras
Stir in olives, raisins, and capers.
If using potatoes, add them now. Cover and simmer 15–20 minutes, until potatoes are tender and flavors meld. - Taste and adjust
Check seasoning; add a bit more salt or pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with white rice or Mexican rice
- Great with tortillas or warm crusty bread
- Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime
Tips for Best Flavor
- Simmer low and slow — allows sweet & savory flavors to balance
- Raisins and cinnamon are optional but give authentic depth
- Can be made ahead — flavors improve the next day
If you want, I can also give you:
- Keto-friendly picadillo (no potatoes or raisins)
- Ground turkey or chicken version
- Picadillo-stuffed peppers or empanadas for a fun dinner twist
Do you want me to give one of these variations?
