Picadillo
Picadillo is a hearty, savory Latin American dish combining ground beef with sweet raisins, crunchy almonds, and warm spices. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef and chopped onion in vegetable oil over high heat.
- Drain off excess fat.
- Add crushed garlic, cinnamon, cumin seed, and ground cloves.
- Stir and cook for 1 minute.
- Add peeled and chopped tomatoes, cider vinegar, raisins, salt, and slivered almonds.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly sweeter flavor, consider adding a bit of brown sugar or honey to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and vinegar. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or add diced bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. If you want a spicier kick, include a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce. For a vegetarian version, use lentils in place of ground beef.
Serving Suggestions
Picadillo is excellent served over rice or with warm tortillas. It pairs beautifully with strips of meat with onions and tomatoes (Venezuelan dish) or a side of black beans. For a complete meal, add a fresh salad or some sautéed vegetables. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Picadillo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picadillo contains roughly 290 calories, with 7g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1406mg per serving (61% 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 Picadillo ahead of time?
Yes, Picadillo can be made ahead of time and actually benefits from sitting for a day to allow the flavors to meld. Simply prepare the dish, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.
What are good side dishes to serve with Picadillo?
Good side dishes to serve with Picadillo include rice, black beans, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with Spanish Lima Beans for added protein and texture.
Is it possible to make Picadillo spicy?
Absolutely! To add heat to your Picadillo, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side, allowing each person to customize the spice level according to their taste preferences.
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).