Piccadilla
Piccadilla is a flavorful Cuban beef stew with savory tomato and olive notes, perfect for hearty meals and pairs well with rice or fried plantains.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add the chopped onions, chopped green pepper, minced garlic, tomato paste, canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and simmer for at least 1 hour, adding water if necessary.
- Serve over rice.
- Optionally, serve with fried plantains or green bananas as an accompaniment.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of cumin. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, diced carrots or raisins can complement the dish well. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding chopped jalapeños works nicely. Don’t skip browning the beef properly for an enhanced depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Piccadilla over a bed of fluffy rice for a hearty meal. You can also pair it with fried plantains or green bananas for a delicious contrast in texture and flavor. A side of fresh avocado or a simple green salad can balance the richness of the dish. For a different take, try it with crispy corn tortillas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. It can also be reheated in the microwave, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Piccadilla contains roughly 480 calories, with 10g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2646mg per serving (115% 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 Piccadilla?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork in this recipe. Each will impart a unique flavor to the dish while maintaining its hearty essence. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
How can I make Piccadilla vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version of Piccadilla, replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use cooked lentils or black beans for protein. You can also increase the amount of vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, to add texture and flavor.
What are some good toppings for Piccadilla?
You can top Piccadilla with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. Some people enjoy a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese. For an extra kick, serve with pickled jalapeños or hot sauce on the side.
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).