Cuban Picadillo

Cuban Picadillo Recipe - Authentic and Flavorful Dish from Cuba

Region / culture: Cuba | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cuban Picadillo is a traditional dish that is popular in Cuban cuisine. It is a flavorful and savory dish made with ground meat, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, olives, and raisins. This dish is often served over fluffy white rice and is a favorite among many families.

History

Picadillo has its roots in Spanish cuisine and was brought to Cuba by Spanish immigrants. Over time, the dish evolved to include local ingredients and flavors, creating the Cuban Picadillo that we know today. It has become a staple in Cuban households and is often served during special occasions and family gatherings.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground meat
1 large onion, chopped
2 – 3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 small can tomato sauce
0.25 cup dry white wine
pimento-stuffed olives
raisins
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

In a large skillet, brown the ground meat, onions, and garlic, and remove any excess fat.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the tomato sauce and white wine.
While the mixture simmers, chop the olives and add them to the meat.
Add the raisins and adjust the seasonings.
Serve the mixture over fluffy, white rice.

Variations

Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and texture.
Use red wine instead of white wine for a richer taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the ground meat well to develop flavor.

- Adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences, adding more pepper or salt if needed.

- Be sure to simmer the mixture for a sufficient amount of time to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Serve the Picadillo over fluffy white rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Picadillo over fluffy white rice and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Pair it with a side of fried plantains or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the ground meat well adds depth of flavor to the dish.

- Simmering the mixture allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and savory sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use green olives instead of stuffed olives for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute golden raisins with regular raisins or dried cranberries.

Make Ahead Tips

The Picadillo can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Picadillo in a colorful bowl or on a decorative platter. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Picadillo with a glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Malbec, to complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the Picadillo on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Cuban Picadillo is a balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and nutritious meal option for any occasion.

Summary

Cuban Picadillo is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its savory flavors and hearty ingredients, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this traditional Cuban dish with family and friends for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Cuban Picadillo. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl living in Havana, Cuba. I had always been passionate about cooking, and I loved nothing more than trying out new recipes and experimenting with different flavors.

One day, while visiting my friend Maria, I noticed a delicious aroma wafting from her kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I saw her busy at work, chopping onions and garlic with a smile on her face. Curious to know what she was making, I asked her about the dish she was preparing.

Maria grinned and said, "I am making Cuban Picadillo, a traditional dish that my grandmother used to make for us when we were children. It's a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion."

Intrigued, I watched as Maria cooked the ground beef with onions, garlic, and a variety of spices. The smell was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to try it. As soon as the dish was ready, Maria served me a generous helping of Picadillo along with some white rice and fried plantains. The first bite was a revelation - the flavors were bold and delicious, and I couldn't get enough.

From that moment on, I knew that I had to learn how to make Cuban Picadillo myself. Maria kindly shared her family recipe with me, and I made it my mission to perfect the dish and make it my own.

Over the years, I have cooked Cuban Picadillo countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. I have experimented with different spices, vegetables, and even meats, but one thing remains constant - the rich and savory flavors that remind me of my childhood in Cuba.

One day, while visiting my grandmother in the countryside, I decided to surprise her with my version of Cuban Picadillo. As soon as she took her first bite, her eyes lit up with joy and nostalgia. She told me that my Picadillo tasted just like the one her mother used to make, and that I had truly captured the essence of the dish.

From that moment on, my grandmother became my mentor in the kitchen, teaching me all her family recipes and sharing with me the stories behind each one. She told me how she had learned to make Picadillo from her own mother, who had passed down the recipe through generations.

As I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, I realized that cooking was not just about following a recipe - it was about preserving tradition, creating memories, and sharing love through food. Every time I make Cuban Picadillo, I am transported back to that moment in Maria's kitchen, where I first fell in love with the dish.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar smells and sounds of cooking, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes and stories that have shaped me into the cook I am today. And as I take a bite of the steaming hot Picadillo that I have just prepared, I am reminded once again of the power of food to connect us to our past and bring joy to our present.

In the end, Cuban Picadillo is more than just a dish - it is a symbol of love, family, and tradition. And as long as I continue to cook and share this recipe with others, I know that a piece of my heritage will live on for generations to come.