Picciadillo
Picciadillo is a hearty Latin American beef and potato dish with savory tomato and green olives, perfect for comforting family dinners over fluffy cooked rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with olive oil in a large skillet.
- Peel potatoes and cut into 1/4-inch cubes.
- Fry the potato cubes in deep fat until golden and cooked through.
- Drain the fried potatoes on paper towels.
- Add all the remaining ingredients, including onion, green pepper, garlic powder, oregano, bay leaves, tomato sauce, and green olives, to the cooked beef.
- Add the fried potatoes last and stir gently to combine.
- Serve the mixture over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or frozen diced potatoes can be a quick substitute for fresh ones. You can also swap green olives for black olives if you prefer a milder taste. This dish is similar to the Wan-Jak-Juhn Korean Meatballs in its comforting nature.
Serving Suggestions
Serve picciadillo over a bed of fluffy cooked rice for a hearty meal. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a twist, try serving it with warm tortillas for a fun, flavorful wrap option. This dish is reminiscent of the Turkish Beef Deluxe in its comforting, homey appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover picciadillo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picciadillo contains roughly 1098 calories, with 25g protein, 167g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (193% of the Daily Value), iron (168% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (104% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 538mg per serving (23% 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 plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat used.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the beef mixture. You can also serve the picciadillo with a side of hot sauce for those who prefer to spice it up to their liking.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
Picciadillo can be made a day in advance. Simply prepare the entire dish and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. This can save you time on busy weeknights.
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).