Discover the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico with our tantalizing Picadillo Savory Ground Beef Filling! This dish is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that combines the rich tastes of ground beef, sweet raisins, and briny olives, all simmered to perfection. Imagine serving this aromatic and colorful filling over fluffy rice or using it to create delectable empanadas that will impress your family and friends. In just 45 minutes, you can bring the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine into your kitchen, making every bite a celebration of flavor. Ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by finely chopping the onion, bell pepper, and mincing the garlic. Measure out all spices and set ingredients nearby.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it apart using a wooden spoon, cooking until the meat is browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the beef, leaving a small amount for flavor. Return the skillet to the heat and add chopped onions and bell peppers.
- Sauté the vegetables with the beef for 3-4 minutes until the onions become translucent and slightly softened.
- Add minced garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly throughout the meat mixture.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
- Add sliced olives and raisins, mixing gently. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The picadillo should have a balanced sweet and savory flavor profile.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Picadillo can be served over rice, as a filling for empanadas, or as a standalone dish.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions, bell peppers, and garlic in advance. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh ground beef and high-quality canned tomatoes for the best flavor. Opt for green olives for a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the raisins.
- Balance the Flavors: Taste your picadillo as it cooks! Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or spices to achieve that perfect sweet and savory balance that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Let It Rest: Allow the picadillo to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This resting period helps the flavors meld together even more, enhancing the overall taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Don’t limit yourself! This filling is perfect not only over rice but also in tacos, burritos, or as a topping for baked potatoes. Get creative and enjoy the flavors of Puerto Rico in various ways!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
