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Picadillo

Savory Picadillo: A Comforting Weeknight Dinner Delight

This Picadillo recipe combines savory and sweet elements in a one-pot meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Latin American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil can substitute with any neutral oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion substitute with shallots for a milder taste
  • 1 medium red bell pepper green bell pepper offers a more bitter taste
  • 3 cloves garlic adjust for preferred level of garlic intensity
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Italian seasoning can be a substitute
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin coriander can substitute for a different flavor note
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground allspice use mixed spice powder if unavailable
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes omit for a milder dish
  • to taste kosher salt adjust to taste or use sea salt
For the Main Ingredients
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste can substitute with tomato sauce, but reduce other liquids
  • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean) substitute with ground turkey or vegetarian alternatives
  • 1 14-ounce can canned diced tomatoes fresh tomatoes work in a pinch if canned isn’t available
  • 0.5 cup dry white wine can be replaced with broth or omitted for a non-alcoholic version
For Sweetness & Texture
  • 0.5 cup dark raisins dried cranberries can stand in if needed
  • 0.5 cup chopped green olives black olives can be used but will alter the taste
  • 1 tablespoon capers feel free to omit if you don’t have them on hand

Equipment

  • Large Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add 1 finely chopped yellow onion, 1 diced red bell pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly golden.
  2. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 0.5 teaspoon of ground allspice. Stir the mixture for about 1 minute, then add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until it begins to darken slightly.
  3. Introduce 1 pound of ground beef (85% lean) into the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until browned. Pour in a 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes and 0.5 cup of dry white wine.
  4. Bring the picadillo mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. After simmering, add 0.5 cup of dark raisins, 0.5 cup of chopped green olives, and 1 tablespoon of capers to the pot. Mix thoroughly and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. Serve your picadillo over fluffy white rice, in warm tortillas, or beside a fried egg for a delightful meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Feel free to substitute ingredients based on personal preference; Picadillo is versatile and adapts easily to different proteins or vegetables.

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