Picadillo(Soup From The Philippines)
A hearty Filipino soup with ground beef, potatoes, and savory seasonings, offering comforting flavors perfect for family meals and those craving bold, familiar tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat oil.
- Brown garlic in hot oil, then add onions and tomatoes, sauté until tomatoes are mushy.
- Add ground beef and sauté until browned.
- Season with patis (optional), salt, pepper, sugar, and m.s.g.
- Add water and bring to a boil.
- Add potatoes, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste—if you enjoy spice, a dash of chili powder can enhance the dish. Using fresh ingredients will significantly improve the flavor, similar to how they are used in Indonesian Curried Beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Picadillo hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of color. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or crusty bread, making for a satisfying meal. For a complete dining experience, consider serving it alongside a light salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the soup. This combination is reminiscent of Black Bean Soup, Cuban Or Jamaican.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Picadillo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain consistency. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picadillo(Soup From The Philippines) contains roughly 891 calories, with 39g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and potassium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1123mg per serving (49% 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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat you choose, so adjust accordingly to ensure it's fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Picadillo can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or family gatherings.
What if I don't have patis on hand?
If you don't have patis, you can substitute it with soy sauce or fish sauce for a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, you can skip it entirely and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or other spices to suit your taste.
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).