If you’re looking to add some exotic flavors to your dinner table, why not give Cuban Picadillo a try? This traditional Cuban dish is a savory and comforting meal that is perfect for cozy nights at home. With a delightful blend of ground beef, spices, and olives, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make this flavorful and aromatic Cuban Picadillo!
Cuban Picadillo
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
– Cooked white rice, for serving
– Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and diced bell pepper. Sauté until they have softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
5. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add the sliced green olives and raisins (if using) to the skillet. Stir to incorporate all the ingredients.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Serve the Cuban Picadillo over a bed of fluffy white rice.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of freshness.
This Cuban Picadillo recipe offers a beautiful blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. The ground beef, seasoned with aromatic spices and enriched with olives and raisins, creates a unique and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ingredients may seem unusual, but trust us, it all comes together beautifully once simmered in the skillet.
Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. You can add more vegetables like peas or carrots, or even swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version. The beauty of Cuban Picadillo lies in its versatility, so don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen!
Serve this delicious and aromatic Cuban Picadillo over a bed of fluffy white rice and garnish with fresh cilantro for a truly authentic experience. This dish is not only easy to make but also a wonderful way to introduce your family to the vibrant and flavorful world of Cuban cuisine. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to warm your heart and your belly!
