Homemade Picadillo is a comforting and versatile dish that blends savory and sweet flavors with ease. Ground beef is the heart of this recipe, enriched with the depth of tomato sauce and aromatic spices like cumin and oregano. The addition of olives brings a briny sharpness, while the raisins (optional) add a subtle sweetness that balances the savory richness.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Stir in tomato sauce, beef broth, cumin, oregano, and paprika. Bring to a simmer.
- Add diced potatoes, olives, and raisins if using. Cover and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the picadillo cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve over rice or with tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
