A traditional meal that is loved in Spain, the Philippines, and Latin America is picadillo. This recipe is comforting and flavorful, with a robust blend of ground pork, veggies, and a rich, savory sauce. Though picadillo varies from place to place, it’s always the same dish that goes well with rice, tortillas, or as a filler for tacos and empanadas. This recipe will teach you how to prepare a classic picadillo, emphasizing the essential components and cooking techniques that have made it a mainstay in many homes.
Picadillo Ingredients
To create a traditional picadillo, gather the following ingredients:
- Ground Beef (or Pork): 1 pound of ground beef or pork, or a mix of both, serves as the base of the dish.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped, adds depth and sweetness.
- Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced, provide an aromatic foundation.
- Bell Pepper: 1 green bell pepper, diced, for color and a slight crunch.
- Tomatoes: 2 medium tomatoes, chopped, or 1 cup of tomato sauce, contribute a rich, tangy sauce.
- Olives: 1/4 cup of sliced green olives, introduces a briny contrast.
- Capers: 1 tablespoon of capers, optional, gives an extra tangy punch.
- Raisins: 1/4 cup of raisins, for a hint of sweetness.
- Potatoes: 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced, to add substance to the dish.
- Carrots: 1 large carrot, diced, for added texture and color.
- Bay Leaf: 1 bay leaf, infuses the dish with earthy undertones.
- Ground Cumin: 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, for warmth and depth.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing the vegetables and meat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Get all of your components ready first. Chop the tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, onions, and garlic. Cut the olives into slices and reserve the raisins, capers, and bay leaf.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, continuing to sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
Next, add the olive oil to a big skillet and lay it over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they start to turn translucent, about three to four minutes. Then add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, and sauté for a further two minutes, or until aromatic.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Add the chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce once the meat has browned. Add the bay leaf, ground cumin, and a dash of salt and pepper after that. Simmer for around five minutes to let the tomatoes to break down and produce a rich sauce.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
To coat them in sauce, add the diced potatoes and carrots to the skillet and stir. To help the vegetables cook evenly, you can add a small quantity of water or broth if the mixture seems too thick. When the potatoes and carrots are soft, about 15 to 20 minutes of low-heat simmering time is recommended for the picadillo.
Step 6: Incorporate the Sweet and Savory Elements
Stir in the raisins, capers, and sliced olives once the vegetables are cooked. The distinct blend of salty and sweet flavors that characterize picadillo is achieved by these constituents. To let the flavors combine, boil the dish for another five minutes.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serving
Lastly, taste the picadillo and add more salt and pepper if needed to correct the seasoning. Take off the bay leaf before serving. Although picadillo is typically served with white rice, it can also be eaten with tortillas or as a filler for tacos or empanadas.
Conclusion
This classic picadillo recipe demonstrates the adaptability and timeless appeal of this well-liked meal. Picadillo is the ideal dish for special events or family get-togethers because of its soothing texture and tantalizing flavor combination. Regardless of your level of experience, this comprehensive tutorial will assist you in crafting a mouthwatering, genuine rendition of this beloved meal. Have fun!
