Craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful soup? Look no further than this authentic Mexican Picadillo Soup! This easy recipe bursts with the vibrant tastes of Mexico, combining savory ground beef, hearty potatoes, sweet carrots, and a medley of aromatic spices. It's a delicious and healthy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a taste of sunshine in every spoonful!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Mexican Flavors
This recipe makes about 6 servings of delicious Picadillo soup.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions: Creating Culinary Magic
This delicious and healthy recipe is surprisingly easy to make. Follow these simple steps for a fantastic result.
1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Simmer the Soup: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper. Add the cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
4. Garnish and Serve: Once the soup is cooked through, stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Tips for Soup Perfection:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of beef broth and water.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili powder or a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
- Add some beans: Include a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or pinto beans for added protein and texture.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian ground beef.
Variations to Delight Your Taste Buds:
- Spicy Picadillo Soup: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño for a spicier kick.
- Picadillo Soup with Corn: Add a cup of frozen or canned corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Hearty Picadillo Soup: Include other vegetables like zucchini, squash, or mushrooms.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Around 20-25 grams
- Fat: Around 10-15 grams
This authentic Mexican Picadillo Soup is a delicious, easy, and healthy meal option that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe, and don't hesitate to share your experience in the comments below!