Craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful meal that's also quick to make? Look no further than this Mexican Picadillo Soup! This easy recipe delivers a delicious explosion of textures and tastes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. It's a healthy and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico, all from the comfort of your own kitchen! This homemade cooking adventure is simpler than you think.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Let's gather everything before we begin our culinary journey!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, tortilla chips
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Simple Guide
This recipe is designed to be easy, even for beginners. Follow these simple steps and you’ll be enjoying a delicious bowl of Picadillo soup in no time!
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the meat: Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the soup: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, black beans, corn, beef broth, cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 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 the flavors meld together.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, and crushed tortilla chips.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
- For a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrients and flavor. Adding these earlier in the process will allow them to soften along with the onions.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations: Make it Your Own
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to create your own unique version! Consider adding:
- Sweet potatoes: For added sweetness and nutrition.
- Potatoes: Cubed potatoes will add heartiness to your soup.
- Different beans: Kidney beans or pinto beans would also be delicious.
- Chicken or vegetables: Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken or use all vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This Mexican Picadillo Soup is a quick, easy, and healthy meal option that's packed with flavor. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish – it's the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights and a delicious addition to your collection of best recipes. It's a truly wonderful example of delicious dishes made easy.