Picadillo(Pik-Uh-Dee'Yo)
A savory Latin American ground beef dish with olives, raisins, and spices, perfect for a hearty meal over rice, combining sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or stew pot and add the chopped onion. Saute until golden, about 10 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and break it up into small pieces as it browns.
- Add the tomato sauce and mix well.
- Add the green peppers, garlic, cumin, thyme, olives, raisins, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and flavors are blended, about 15 minutes. Taste for seasoning and add more vinegar if necessary.
- Serve over a bed of white rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce. If you're in need of a substitute for ground beef, turkey or lentils can work well. Add more vegetables like diced carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition. To enhance the dish, try serving with a side of black beans, as they pair beautifully with Picadillo.
Serving Suggestions
Picadillo is traditionally served over a bed of white rice, which helps soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a hearty meal. A simple green salad or fried plantains make great sides to complement the dish. For something different, try pairing it with German Beef Rolls for a unique meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Picadillo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picadillo(Pik-Uh-Dee'Yo) contains roughly 1776 calories, with 39g protein, 305g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (104% of the Daily Value), and calcium (103% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 a day in advance. In fact, the flavors develop even more overnight. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving. This is a great option for meal prepping or hosting a gathering.
What can I substitute for green olives?
If you're not a fan of green olives, you can substitute them with capers or omit them entirely. Black olives can also be used for a different flavor profile, though they will change the overall taste of the dish.
Is Picadillo spicy?
Picadillo is generally not spicy, but you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños if you prefer some heat. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
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).