Picadillo Mexicano Recipe

This Picadillo recipe is a delicious fusion of flavors, with the sweetness of raisins and the kick of chipotle pepper creating a symphony of tastes in every bite. It’s the perfect dish for cozy nights, and it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll want to make it part of your weekly dinner rotation!

Mexican Picadillo is a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors that I absolutely love. With ground beef as the star of the show, this dish is complemented by the aromatic duo of chopped onions and minced garlic.

I find the addition of raisins and green olives contributes a unique sweetness and tang to the mix, while a hint of chipotle pepper in adobo sauce rounds it off with just the right amount of heat. And as far as nutrition goes, this dish rates very high for offering a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables.

Picadillo Mexicano Recipe Ingredients

• Ground Beef: Rich in protein and iron, provides hearty flavor.
• Onion: Adds depth and sweetness, supports immunity, and rich in antioxidants.
• Garlic: Aromatic, boosts heart health with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Tomatoes: Juicy and tangy, packed with vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Potato: Adds fulfilling texture, a good source of carbohydrates and fiber.
• Raisins: Sweet touch, high in natural sugars and antioxidants.
• Green Olives: Briny and rich, provide healthy fats and vitamin E.
• Chipotle Pepper in Adobo: Spicy heat, rich in flavor, boosts metabolism.
• Cumin: Earthy spice, aids digestion and enhances flavor profile.

Picadillo Mexicano Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
• 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

How to Make this Picadillo Mexicano Recipe

1. In a big frying pan, warm the vegetable oil over medium heat.

2. Add the ground beef and cook until it is brown, breaking it up with a spoon, for about 5-7 minutes.

3. Place the onion in the skillet. Add minced garlic. Sauté until onions are see-through, about 3 minutes.

4. Add the chopped tomatoes and diced potatoes. Allow to cook and simmer in the pot for about 5 minutes.

5. Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer.

6. Include the raisins, green olives cut into slices, and chopped-up chipotle pepper that has been put into adobo sauce into the skillet.

7. Add the ground cumin and season with salt and pepper. Stir to mix.

8. Put the lid on the skillet and let it cook for around 15 minutes. During this time, check in on the potatoes a couple of times and give them a stir. When you do, just use a spatula to turn them over; there’s no need to chop or mash them up any more than they already are.

9. When the Picadillo is done cooking and the flavors have combined, take it off the heat.

10. If you are using cilantro, stir it in after chopping. Serve warm.

Picadillo Mexicano Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large frying pan or skillet
2. Measuring spoons
3. Cutting board
4. Chef’s knife
5. Wooden spoon or spatula
6. Lid for the skillet
7. Stirring spoon

FAQ

• What can I use instead of ground beef for Picadillo Mexicano?
  You can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative, or opt for a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
• Can I make Picadillo Mexicano ahead of time?
  Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s also freezer-friendly for up to 3 months.
• Is there a way to make Picadillo less spicy?
  You can reduce or omit the chipotle pepper in adobo sauce to decrease the spiciness. You can also add more tomatoes or beef broth for a milder taste.
• Are there vegan options for Picadillo Mexicano?
  Absolutely! Use a plant-based meat alternative and substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth. Make sure the chipotle in adobo and other seasonings are also vegan-friendly.
• What should I serve with Picadillo Mexicano?
  This dish pairs well with rice, warm tortillas, or a fresh salad. It’s versatile and can also be served as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Can I omit the raisins in the recipe?
  Yes, you can omit the raisins if you prefer. They add a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors, but the dish is still delicious without them.
• Can I add more vegetables to Picadillo Mexicano?
  Certainly! Bell peppers, peas, or carrots can be great additions to enhance the flavor and nutritive value of the dish.

Picadillo Mexicano Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for ground beef.
Substitute sweet potato for a regular potato to change up the flavor.
Replace beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
Substitute raisins for chopped dates or dried cranberries for some added zip.
Use black olives instead of green olives to achieve a milder taste.

Pro Tips

1. Browning the Meat Properly: Ensure the ground beef has enough space in the pan to brown evenly. Avoid overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of browning. For extra flavor, allow the meat to develop a deep brown crust before stirring.