Get The Inside Scoop On How To Make Ground Beef Picadillo – It’s So Good, You’ll Be Making It Again And Again!

Picadillo is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a filling for tacos, empanadas, or burritos. Traditionally made with ground beef, picadillo is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to make ground beef picadillo, along with tips and variations to enhance your dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat.

2. Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Season the Mixture

Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the picadillo hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, beans, or tortillas.

Tips for Making the Best Picadillo

• Use a lean ground beef. This will help to reduce the amount of fat in the dish.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables. They should be softened but still have a bit of a crunch.
• Season to taste. Add more cumin, oregano, salt, or pepper to suit your preferences.
• Let the picadillo simmer. This will allow the flavors to develop and deepen.
• Serve the picadillo with your favorite toppings. Some popular options include chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, or sour cream.

Variations on the Classic Picadillo

• Add other vegetables. Try adding diced carrots, celery, or zucchini to your picadillo.
• Use different meats. You can substitute ground pork, turkey, or chicken for the ground beef.
• Make it spicy. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give your picadillo a kick.
• Add raisins or olives. These ingredients will add a touch of sweetness and texture to your dish.
• Serve it differently. Instead of serving the picadillo as a main course, use it as a filling for tacos, empanadas, or burritos.

Pairing Suggestions

Picadillo pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• Rice
• Beans
• Tortillas
• Salad
• Avocado

The Art of Leftovers

Picadillo is a great dish to make ahead of time. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the picadillo over medium heat until warmed through.

Summary: Savor the Flavor of Picadillo

Making ground beef picadillo is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a flavorful and versatile meal. With its endless variations and pairing possibilities, picadillo is a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, give picadillo a try!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make picadillo without ground beef?

You can substitute ground pork, turkey, or chicken for the ground beef.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato sauce and tomato paste?

Yes, you can use one (28 ounce) can of diced tomatoes instead of the tomato sauce and tomato paste.

How can I store picadillo leftovers?

Picadillo will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.