Cuban Picadillo

 

Picadillo is a traditional dish in Spain and many Latin American countries.  Several variations exist, but this recipe is based on the Cuban style picadillo.

 

Served over saffron rice with a side of black beans, this is serious comfort food in our house.  My husband LOVES this dish.  As well as my not-quite-2 year old!

 

This is an easy and cost efficient meal to make for a crowd.  The leftovers reheat well and can be used as filling for empanadas, tacos, or as sloppy joes.  All around comforting and versatile dish!  Here's how I make it.

 

 

Feel free to substitute ground turkey if you want.  I sometimes do and it turns out great!

 

 

Start by browning the meat.  While that is working, chop the bell peppers, onion, and garlic.

 

Drain the meat if necessary and add in the onions and peppers.  Cook for a few minutes then add in the garlic.  Continue to cook for another minute or two.

 

Next add in the remaining ingredients.

 



 

Bring it up to a good simmer, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes.  The raisins need time to plump up and all the flavors to combine.

 

Serve over saffron rice with a side of black beans and you have a (semi) authentic Cuban meal!  Fried plantains go amazing with this as well. 

 

 

Hope you'll give it a try!

 

Cuban Picadillo

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 packet Goya Sazon with Coriander and Annatto (this stuff)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tbs paprika
• 2 tbs Badia Complete Seasoning (this stuff)
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/4 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbs sugar
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup stuffed olives
• 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
• 2 tbs red wine vinegar
• salt and pepper to taste

In a large pan, brown the ground beef.  Drain if necessary. 

Add diced onions and bell peppers.  Cook for a few minutes.  Add in minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute.

Add in remaining ingredients and bring to a good simmer.  Reduce heat to low and continue to simmer with lid slightly ajar for 45 minutes.

Serve over rice with a side of beans.

Enjoy!!!