Mexican Style Picadillo combines robust flavors and comforting ingredients into a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. This traditional ground beef dish is infused with a delightful mix of spices, vegetables, and sometimes fruits, making it a versatile meal fit for numerous occasions. Whether you serve it on a bed of rice, in tacos, or with tortillas, this dish never fails to impress and satiate.
Why We Love This Mexican Style Picadillo
This dish stands out for a few key reasons. First, the flavor profile is rich and complex. You combine the savoriness of ground beef with aromatic spices, and the sweetness of bell peppers. Each bite offers a little something different, and that’s part of the fun. You also get to play with textures and flavors by incorporating a variety of vegetables, nuts, and even dried fruits like raisins.
Another reason to love Mexican Style Picadillo is its adaptability. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. If you’re a fan of spicy food, add some jalapeños or cayenne pepper. If you prefer something milder, skip the heat. You can customize this dish to fit whatever you’re craving, whether it’s more vegetables, extra spices, or different types of meat.
Moreover, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup—a blessing for any busy cook. With simple preparation and cooking steps, you can whip up this delicious dish quickly during a weeknight rush or take your time to enjoy the process on a leisurely weekend. No matter when you decide to make it, Mexican Style Picadillo never disappoints.
Ingredients for Mexican Style Picadillo
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup almonds, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the bell pepper, carrot, and potato. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Incorporate the tomato sauce and beef broth into the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Add in the peas, raisins, chopped almonds, ground cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Cover the skillet and let everything simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally, checking to ensure the liquid doesn’t evaporate completely.
- Once done, taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Remove from heat and allow to sit for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Mexican Style Picadillo
Mexican Style Picadillo is remarkably versatile in how you can serve it. If you want a traditional approach, serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice. The rice absorbs the rich flavors of the picadillo, enhancing each bite. You can also serve it with warm tortillas, letting everyone make their own tacos. This allows guests to choose their toppings and customize their meals.
For a heartier presentation, consider pairing it with a side of refried beans and a small portion of guacamole. The creaminess of the guacamole balances the spices in the picadillo beautifully. Another option is to serve it alongside fresh corn or a simple salad. A refreshing side can help cut through the richness of the main dish.
If you’re feeding guests, consider serving picadillo in a casserole dish or individual bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro for a pop of color. This simple touch can elevate your presentation, making the meal feel more festive. Don’t forget hot sauces or salsas on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick!
Expert Tips for Mexican Style Picadillo
Cooking Mexican Style Picadillo can be straightforward, but a few expert tips can elevate your dish even more. Start by choosing quality ground beef—consider using ground chuck for its balance of flavor and fat content. You can also use a blend of meats, such as ground turkey or chicken, for a leaner option without sacrificing taste.
Don’t skip the aromatics! Sautéing onions and garlic at the beginning builds a flavor foundation for the dish. Adding chopped olives can introduce a salty, briny flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the raisins.
Adjust the level of spice according to your preferences. If you enjoy heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Additionally, some people love to include a bay leaf during the simmering stage for added depth. Just remember to remove it before serving!
Make sure to use fresh produce whenever possible, as it intensifies flavor and texture. Lastly, let the picadillo rest after cooking. This allows flavors to meld together even more, making the dish taste better when served.
How to Store Mexican Style Picadillo
Storing Mexican Style Picadillo is easy and straightforward. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, make sure to separate it into smaller portions. This makes it convenient to reheat individual servings later.
If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing the picadillo. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. Frozen picadillo can last for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it up on the stovetop or microwave. This method preserves the flavors and texture, making it almost as good as freshly made.
Variations of Mexican Style Picadillo
Mexican Style Picadillo is incredibly adaptable, and you can vary it in numerous ways to keep it exciting. If you want to experiment with flavors, try substituting ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option. Each will deliver a different flavor and cater to various dietary needs.
You can also add other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or even diced tomatoes for added color and nutrients. Some people enjoy mixing in black beans for added protein and fiber. If you crave sweetness, swapping out almonds for pecans can provide a different nutty flavor.
For a tropical twist, consider adding pineapple. Its sweetness contrasts wonderfully with spices, creating a unique flavor experience. You might also want to integrate different spices or herbs for a more personalized touch. For example, adding fresh cilantro or mint can give the dish a fresh aroma that brightens the overall palate.
Lastly, you can adjust the thickness of the sauce based on your preference. If you prefer a saucier dish, add a bit more broth or tomatoes. If you like it thicker, reduce the liquid a bit during the cooking process. There are endless possibilities to play with, making this dish perfect for anyone who enjoys personalizing their meal.
FAQ about Mexican Style Picadillo
When it comes to making Mexican Style Picadillo, you may have some questions. What makes it "Mexican" style? The blend of spices and the use of specific ingredients like raisins and potatoes give this dish its unique identity. The combination of sweetness and savory elements is typical in many Mexican dishes.
Is it hard to make Mexican Style Picadillo? Not at all! This dish is relatively easy and quick to prepare. It requires only one pot, making it convenient and less messy. Follow the instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes.
Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, making Mexican Style Picadillo ahead of time is a great idea. The flavors blend beautifully as it sits, making it even richer the next day. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container.
What can I serve with Mexican Style Picadillo? You have plenty of options here! Serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside beans and tortillas. Adding fresh vegetables or a salad on the side can help balance the dish and add freshness.
How can I make Mexican Style Picadillo spicier? If you like heat, add diced jalapeños or chili peppers during the cooking process. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or serve with a spicy salsa on the side for an extra kick.
Mexican Style Picadillo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Quality ground chuck is recommended.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup almonds, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- splash Olive oil, for cooking
- for garnish Fresh cilantro, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the bell pepper, carrot, and potato. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Incorporate the tomato sauce and beef broth into the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Add in the peas, raisins, chopped almonds, ground cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Cover the skillet and let everything simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the liquid doesn’t evaporate completely.
- Once done, taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Remove from heat and allow to sit for a few minutes before serving.
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