Pecadillo
Pecadillo is a flavorful Spanish-inspired beef dish with raisins, almonds, and spices, offering a sweet-savory profile that pairs beautifully with rice for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add garlic and onion; cook until transparent. Drain excess grease.
- Add chopped tomatoes, diced green pepper, and raisins; cook for 10 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, cloves, and cinnamon to taste.
- Stir in toasted sliced almonds and sliced stuffed olives.
- Serve the pecadillo over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your pecadillo, try adding some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Toasting the almonds beforehand brings out their flavor, making the dish even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pecadillo over a bed of fluffy white rice or with warm tortillas for a delightful meal. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. It also goes well with a side of black beans or avocado slices for added flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals until heated through, ensuring even warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecadillo contains roughly 1041 calories, with 40g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (80% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (64% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2095mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make pecadillo ahead of time?
Yes, pecadillo can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen when allowed to sit, making it even more delicious. Just reheat it gently before serving.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially for leaner meats.
Is pecadillo spicy?
Pecadillo is typically not very spicy, but you can adjust the heat level by adding ingredients like diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. For a milder taste, skip the spicy additions and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).