Description
Puerto Rican Picadillo is a savory and comforting ground beef dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, green olives, raisins, and warm spices. This classic Puerto Rican staple is simple to prepare in one skillet and bursting with rich, bold flavors. It’s traditionally served over white rice, accompanied by fried plantains or tucked into tacos for a satisfying meal perfect any day of the week.
Ingredients
Meat and Base
- 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids and Sauces
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
Additional Flavorings
- 1/3 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until browned evenly.
- Drain Excess Grease: If needed, carefully drain off any excess grease from the browned beef to reduce fat content.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Broth: Stir in the tomato sauce and 1/2 cup water or beef broth to create a flavorful base for simmering.
- Add Olives, Raisins, and Spices: Incorporate the sliced green olives, raisins (if using), dried oregano, ground cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Mix well to combine all flavors.
- Simmer the Picadillo: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to meld the flavors.
- Remove Bay Leaves and Add Cilantro: Take out the bay leaves, then stir in the chopped fresh cilantro for a bright herbal finish.
- Serve: Serve the Picadillo hot over white rice, alongside fried plantains, avocado slices, or your favorite accompaniments.
Notes
- Raisins add a subtle sweetness typical of traditional Puerto Rican picadillo but can be left out if preferred.
- For a heartier dish, add diced potatoes during the simmering step.
- Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef.
- Picadillo flavors deepen overnight, making it excellent for meal prep and leftovers.
- Perfect served with white rice, fried plantains, avocado, or beans for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Puerto Rican
