Savory Pepper Picadillo

Savory Pepper Picadillo Recipe - Caribbean Ground Beef Dish

Region / culture: Caribbean | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Savory Pepper Picadillo is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines ground beef with a variety of vegetables and seasonings. This dish is perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

History

Picadillo is a traditional dish in many Latin American countries, with variations in ingredients and seasonings depending on the region. It is typically made with ground meat, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. The addition of bell peppers and carrots in this recipe adds a unique twist to the classic dish.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1.5 cups thinly sliced onions
1 clove garlic, minced
1.5 cups thinly sliced red bell peppers
1.5 cups thinly sliced yellow bell peppers
1 cup minced carrots
0.5 cup dry white wine
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
0.13 tsp fresh ground pepper
1 can (14.5 oz or 411 g) stewed tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 oz or 227 g) tomato sauce
2 bay leaves
salt

How to prepare

Brown the beef and remove it from the pan, draining any excess fat.
Saute the onion and garlic in olive oil until they become soft. Then, add the bell peppers and carrot and saute for another 4-5 minutes.
Return the beef to the pan and stir in the next six ingredients (wine through bay leaves).
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the bay leaves, add salt to taste, and serve the dish over hot brown rice.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef for a lighter version of the dish.
Add a can of black beans or corn for extra fiber and texture.
Spice it up with some chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the beef before adding it back to the pan to ensure a rich and deep flavor.

- Sauteing the onions and garlic in olive oil will help to release their flavors and create a delicious base for the dish.

- Letting the mixture simmer for 15 minutes will allow the flavors to meld together and create a delicious and savory sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Savory Pepper Picadillo over hot brown rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the beef before adding it back to the pan will create a rich and deep flavor.

- Letting the mixture simmer for 15 minutes will allow the flavors to meld together and create a delicious and savory sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any color bell peppers you have on hand, or mix and match for a colorful dish.

- Substitute red wine vinegar for the balsamic vinegar if needed.

- Use canned diced tomatoes instead of stewed tomatoes if that's what you have in your pantry.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Savory Pepper Picadillo in a large serving bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a beautiful presentation. Pair with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a light and crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 420 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 18g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 22g per serving

Saturated Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 32g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 80% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 180% of daily value per serving

Iron: 25% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively high in fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Savory Pepper Picadillo is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a family meal. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. Enjoy it over hot brown rice for a complete and flavorful meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Savory Pepper Picadillo. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was known for her delicious and unique recipes, and I always looked forward to learning something new from her.

As I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the fragrant aroma of spices and herbs wafting through the air. Maria greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a hand-written recipe card. "This is my special recipe for Savory Pepper Picadillo," she said. "It's a family favorite, and I know you'll love it!"

I eagerly took the recipe card and studied it closely. The ingredients were simple yet flavorful - ground beef, bell peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a blend of spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. It was a dish that seemed to combine sweet and savory flavors in a harmonious way.

Maria explained to me the process of making the Savory Pepper Picadillo, from browning the ground beef to sautéing the peppers and onions until they were soft and caramelized. She showed me how to add the tomatoes and spices, allowing the flavors to meld together into a rich and aromatic sauce.

As we cooked together, Maria shared stories of how she learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. She told me about the origins of Picadillo, a traditional Latin American dish that was a staple in her family's kitchen.

I listened intently, absorbing every detail and technique that Maria shared with me. I could see the passion and love she had for cooking, and it inspired me to learn more about the art of creating delicious and meaningful meals.

After hours of simmering and stirring, the Savory Pepper Picadillo was finally ready. Maria ladled generous spoonfuls of the dish onto plates, garnishing it with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. The colors and aromas of the dish were enticing, and I couldn't wait to take my first bite.

As I tasted the Savory Pepper Picadillo, I was transported to a world of flavors and memories. The sweet and tangy peppers combined with the savory beef created a symphony of tastes that danced on my palate. The blend of spices added depth and complexity to the dish, making it a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

I thanked Maria for sharing her recipe with me and vowed to carry on the tradition of making Savory Pepper Picadillo in my own kitchen. I knew that this recipe would become a cherished favorite among my family and friends, just as it had been for Maria and her loved ones.

Over the years, I have continued to make Savory Pepper Picadillo, adding my own twists and variations to the recipe. I have shared it with countless people, passing on the knowledge and love that Maria had imparted to me that fateful day in her kitchen.

Every time I make Savory Pepper Picadillo, I am reminded of the sense of wonder and joy that I felt when I first learned the recipe. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, not just for its delicious flavors, but for the memories and traditions that it represents.

And so, I will continue to cook and share this recipe with others, spreading the joy and magic of Savory Pepper Picadillo to all who are fortunate enough to taste it. For in the kitchen, as in life, it is the simple act of sharing and creating that truly nourishes the soul.