Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both easy to make and packed with deliciousness? Look no further than this Picadillo with Potatoes recipe! This Cuban classic is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a hearty and satisfying dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this picadillo is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s one of those easy recipes that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, making it ideal for busy weeknights and beginner cooks alike. Let’s dive into this delightful journey of homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra richness)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 2 tbsp raisins (optional, adds a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions:
Get started: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers; cook for another 3-5 minutes until slightly tender.
Brown the meat: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Simmer to perfection: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, beef broth, diced potatoes, olives, capers, raisins (if using), cumin, oregano, and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over cooked white rice. This delicious dish is even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño pepper for a spicier picadillo.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled firm tofu for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Add some heat: A diced jalapeño or a dash of your favorite hot sauce will add a delicious kick.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet picadillo, reduce the amount of raisins or omit them altogether.
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Picadillo with Potatoes recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for those looking for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. The combination of savory ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a truly unforgettable flavor experience. This is a great addition to your repertoire of best recipes and a wonderful example of delicious dishes you can easily make at home. Enjoy!