The Best Ground Beef Picadillo Recipe – How To Make It In Just 30 Minutes

Picadillo, a tantalizing dish with deep-rooted Latin American origins, is a culinary symphony that captivates taste buds with its vibrant flavors and comforting textures. If you’re eager to embark on a culinary adventure and learn how to make ground beef picadillo, you’ve come to the right place. Join us as we delve into the secrets of this delectable dish, providing you with a comprehensive guide to crafting the perfect picadillo.

Gather Your Culinary Arsenal

Before embarking on this culinary expedition, ensure you have the following ingredients assembled:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Introduce the Bell Peppers

Add the red and green bell peppers to the skillet and continue sautéing until they start to soften, about another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Enhance the Flavor with Spices

Stir in the cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromatic essence.

Step 5: Create the Savory Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Step 6: Combine the Beef and Sauce

Return the browned ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes, or until the beef is heated through and the flavors have melded.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh cilantro. Serve the picadillo over rice, beans, or your favorite side dish.

Tips for a Perfect Picadillo

• For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and ground pork.
• If you don’t have tomato sauce, you can substitute with 1 cup of tomato puree and 1/2 cup of water.
• Add a touch of heat with diced jalapeños or chopped chipotle peppers.
• Serve the picadillo with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for an extra layer of flavor.

Variations to Delight Your Palate

• Vegetable Picadillo: Omit the ground beef and add more vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and zucchini.
• Spicy Picadillo: Increase the amount of cumin, oregano, and black pepper for a fiery kick.
• Sweet Picadillo: Add a touch of sweetness with raisins or chopped dates.

FAQ: Unraveling the Mysteries of Picadillo

Q: What is the difference between picadillo and taco meat?
A: Picadillo is typically cooked with a tomato-based sauce and seasoned with a variety of spices. Taco meat, on the other hand, is usually seasoned with chili powder and cumin.

Q: Can I use other types of meat in picadillo?
A: Yes, you can use ground pork, ground turkey, or even shredded chicken.

Q: How long can I store picadillo?
A: Picadillo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

In the realm of culinary delights, picadillo stands as a beacon of flavor and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this comprehensive guide will empower you to craft a picadillo that will tantalize your taste buds and leave a lasting impression on your palate. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the culinary adventure, and prepare to savor the exquisite flavors of this beloved Latin American dish.