Are you craving a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! Carne Picada, a simple yet satisfying shredded beef dish, is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. This recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional ground beef recipes, resulting in a tender, juicy, and deeply flavorful dish that the whole family will adore. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to experience the joy of creating a truly delicious and healthy meal!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Essentials
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight dinner.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Carne Picada
Get Started:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Building the Flavor:
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Simmering to Perfection:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more tender the beef becomes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Once the Carne Picada is cooked to your liking, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with your favorite sides. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with rice, tortillas, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad.
Tips and Variations for a Truly Personalized Dish
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level. For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or corn to enhance the nutritional value and add more texture.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve your Carne Picada in baked potatoes, or alongside a vibrant mix of your favorite roasted vegetables.
- Slow cooker option: For an even easier approach, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Carne Picada recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals that are also quick dinner ideas. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend, this versatile recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!