Picadillo de res

picadillo_de_res

Picadillo de res is a traditional Latin American dish that is popular in many countries, including Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Cuba. In Spanish, the word “picadillo” refers to minced meat, which is the key ingredient in this recipe. It is a versatile dish that can be served as a filling for empanadas, tacos, or burritos or eaten on its own with rice or bread. The dish has roots in Spanish and Latin American cuisine and has evolved over time to include different flavors and spices.

The recipe consists of ground beef, cooked with a variety of seasonings, vegetables, and sometimes fruits, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The sweetness comes from the addition of raisins, while the savory notes come from the use of spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic. The recipe also often includes diced potatoes, carrots, and onions, which add texture and flavor to the dish. Although it is a common recipe across many Latin American countries, each country has its unique twist on the dish, making it a truly diverse and exciting culinary experience.

In Mexico, picadillo with potatoes is a staple in many households, while in Puerto Rico, it is often made with ground pork or turkey. In Cuba, it is served with rice, while in the Dominican Republic, it is often consumed as an empanada filling. No matter the country or the variation, the dish remains true to its roots and is a crowd-pleaser wherever it’s served.

Picadillo de res has a history that dates back to colonial times where it was a popular dish among the Spanish aristocracy in the Americas. Over time, the dish has evolved and has become an essential part of Latin American cuisine. It is a dish that represents a beautiful fusion of Latin American and Spanish flavors, making it a symbol of cultural identity.

Preparing Picadillo at home is straightforward, as it requires minimal preparation and is easy to make. First, the ground beef is cooked in a skillet with diced potatoes, carrots, and onion. Once the meat is browned, garlic, cumin, chili powder, tomato sauce, and a pinch of sugar are added to the mixture. The final touch is adding raisins and green olives, which gives the dish its signature sweet and salty taste.

The aroma of the spices and the texture of the vegetables and raisins create a rich and comforting dish, perfect for sharing with friends and family. It is also an excellent dish to introduce people to Latin American cuisine, as it is not too spicy but still packed with flavors.

In conclusion, Picadillo de res is a classic dish that has captured the hearts and palates of Latin American communities across the world. It represents a beautiful blend of Latin American and Spanish flavors, making it a symbol of cultural identity. Whether you are preparing it at home or enjoying it at a restaurant, it is a dish that will transport you to the streets of Havana, the beaches of Puerto Rico, or the markets of Mexico. It is a dish that tells a story of Latin American heritage and traditions and is sure to delight anyone who tries it.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs. ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2-3 jalapeño peppers, chopped
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup sliced pitted Spanish green olives
  • 2 tbsp capers
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges, to serve

Instructions:

  1. In a large skillet or dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat.

  2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for a few minutes until the onion is softened.

  3. Add the chopped tomatoes, bell pepper, jalapeño peppers, and tomato paste, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

  4. Add the beef broth, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper and bring to a simmer.

  5. Stir in the raisins, olives, and capers and cook for another 10 minutes until the beef is cooked through.

  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

  7. Serve hot garnished with cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Picadillo can be served over rice or as a filling for tacos or empanadas. Enjoy!