Cuban Recipe For Picadillo: A Delicious Meal For Friends And Family
Picadillo is a traditional Cuban dish that is served at special occasions, such as birthdays and anniversaries. It is a savory dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, and other ingredients. The dish is full of flavor and is a favorite among Cuban families. With the right ingredients, it can be made in a matter of minutes. Here is a simple Cuban recipe for picadillo that will make your family and friends smile.
Ingredients
To make this Cuban picadillo recipe, you will need: 1 pound of ground beef, 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 green bell pepper, 1 red bell pepper, 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces), 1 cup of dry white wine, 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 2 teaspoons of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and ½ cup of raisins.
Instructions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Next, add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent. Add the can of tomatoes, white wine, bay leaves, oregano, cumin, paprika, and tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the raisins and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Serving
Once the picadillo is done, remove the bay leaves and serve. Picadillo is typically served with white rice, but you can also serve it with black beans and tostones, a Cuban dish of fried plantains. It is a great meal for large gatherings and special occasions. It is also a hearty, flavorful dish that your family and friends will love.
Variations
You can also add other ingredients to the picadillo. Try adding a diced potato for a heartier dish, or add olives or capers for a salty, briny flavor. You can also substitute the beef for chicken, pork, or turkey. The possibilities are endless.
Tips
For a more flavorful picadillo, try marinating the beef in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lime juice before cooking. This will give the beef a nice citrus flavor. You can also add a spoonful of sugar to the picadillo to balance out the flavors. Finally, if you want a spicier dish, add a diced jalapeño pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Conclusion
Cuban picadillo is a classic dish that is perfect for special occasions or just a family dinner. With the right ingredients, it can be made in a matter of minutes. Try this Cuban recipe for picadillo and see why it has been a favorite for generations. It is sure to be a hit with your friends and family.