Piccadillo
Picadillo is a savory Latin American dish featuring seasoned ground beef with raisins and olives, offering a sweet-savory flavor profile perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions, garlic, and sweet pepper; cook until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes and simmer the mixture for about 30 minutes.
- Half an hour before serving, add raisins and green olives to the skillet.
- Serve the picadillo over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika. If you don't have green olives, you can substitute with capers or omit them altogether. To enhance the sweetness, try adding a bit more raisins or even some chopped apple. This dish can also be made with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative, similar to recipes like Greenbriar Beef Stroganoff.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the picadillo over a generous bed of cooked rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of Tangy Cranberry Sauce for a contrasting flavor. You might also consider serving it with a fresh salad or some warm crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a more complete dinner, try it alongside Holubtsi (Stuffed Cabbage).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This picadillo also freezes well for up to three months; simply thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Piccadillo contains roughly 764 calories, with 21g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1050mg per serving (46% 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 and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Simply prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving, and it will be just as delicious.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Both will provide a lighter texture and flavor, while still maintaining the essence of picadillo.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced carrots, peas, or even corn for additional color and nutrition. Just make sure to cook them until tender along with the onions and peppers to ensure they blend well with the dish.
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).