When enjoying Easy Cuban Picadillo, it’s all about pairing it with sides that balance its savory, hearty flavors while adding texture and freshness. White rice, whether basmati or jasmine, is the perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce and enhance the dish’s richness.
Fried plantains bring a delightful crispy-sweet contrast, complementing the savory notes of the picadillo and offering a satisfying balance. For a refreshing touch, an avocado salad or simply fresh slices of avocado can cut through the richness, providing a creamy and cooling element to each bite.
Seasoned black beans add an earthy flavor and are a nutritious side that pairs beautifully with the picadillo. Lastly, crispy tostones (fried plantain chips) are a fun and crunchy way to scoop up the picadillo, adding a nice texture contrast and extra flavor.
Together, these sides create a well-rounded, vibrant meal that elevates the flavors of your Cuban picadillo.
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If you’re craving something packed with flavor and a touch of nostalgia, you’re in the right spot. Today, I’ll share my journey with Easy Cuban Picadillo. This dish has roots in Cuban kitchens and a heartwarming backstory. It’s filling, delicious, and, most importantly, simple to put together.
I remember the first time I tasted it. The aroma wafted through my friend’s kitchen, instantly taking me back to sunny afternoons spent with family. They say food has a way of connecting us to places. For me, that was true with picadillo.
Let’s kick things off by breaking down what Easy Cuban Picadillo is all about.
What is Easy Cuban Picadillo?
Easy Cuban Picadillo is a traditional dish made from ground beef seasoned with a medley of spices and ingredients. This isn’t just any beef hash; it’s a vibrant mix of flavors. You’ll find savory and sweet notes from olives, tomatoes, and spices mingling together.
This dish is versatile, often served with rice, plantains, or even wrapped in tortillas. At its core, picadillo is comfort food. It’s what you serve when you want to feel wrapped in a warm hug, even if it’s from a plate.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine a dance of flavors in your mouth. The richness of the beef is complemented by the tang of olives and the sweetness of spices. The tomato paste adds depth, while the red wine vinegar provides a pleasant zing. Overall, it’s a bright yet hearty dish that keeps you wanting more.
Why This Recipe Works
Here are some reasons why making Easy Cuban Picadillo at home is worth your time.
1. Simplicity: You don’t need culinary training to whip this up. The steps are straightforward, and you’ll impress anyone who tastes it!
2. Flavorful Ingredients: Each component brings its own character. From the cumin to the olives, this dish is layered with rich flavors.
3. Affordable: Ground beef is usually budget-friendly. Coupled with pantry staples, this dish won’t break the bank.
4. Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. It’s perfect for meal prepping or making in batches.
Ingredients for Easy Cuban Picadillo
Here is your shopping list:
- 1 ½ lb 93% lean ground beef
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp green olives, pitted and chopped (or alcaparrado, capers can also be used)
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ripe tomato, chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2-4 tbsp olive brine
- ½ red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 dried bay leaves
- 4 oz tomato paste (about half a can)
- ½ large onion, diced
- kosher salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to dive into cooking? Let’s break it down.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start, make sure everything is prepped. Chop your veggies, gather your spices, and grab that ground beef.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat up a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell divine.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Push the veggies to the side of the skillet. Add the ground beef and cook it through, breaking it up with a spoon. It should brown nicely, about 7-10 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Flavors
Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaves. Mix everything together. Aromas will fill your space. Next, add in the chopped tomato, olives, and olive brine for just the right kick.
Step 5: Pour in the Tomato Paste
Now, stir in the tomato paste and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer. The goal here is to combine those flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Simmer Away
Lower the heat and let everything dance together. Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally. This is where the picadillo magic happens.
Step 7: Finish With Freshness
At the end of simmering, stir in red wine vinegar and freshly chopped cilantro. Taste it and adjust the salt and pepper. Your Easy Cuban Picadillo is ready!
Notes
Here are some tips to make your cooking experience even better:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables elevate the flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Allowing the beef to brown properly gives depth to the dish.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, throw in some red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers are Your Friends: This dish gets better overnight.
- Serve Hot: Always serve picadillo while it’s warm to enjoy all the flavors.
Nutrition Information
Easy cuban picadillo recipe nutrition facts
How to Store the Leftovers?
Let’s face it, if you have any left, they’re lucky! Store your Easy Cuban Picadillo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat it on the stove over medium heat until it’s warmed through.
Sides for Easy Cuban Picadillo
Feeling like you need a side to go with your picadillo? Here are a few great ideas:
1. Coconut Rice: This sweet and savory combo pairs beautifully. The creamy texture complements the savory flavors of the picadillo.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers roasted to perfection can add a light touch to your meal.
3. Classic Black Beans: Seasoned simply with garlic and onion, these beans provide a hearty counterbalance.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Bright and zesty, this brings an extra layer of flavor that sings alongside the rich picadillo.
Alternative Choices to Ingredients
Forgot an ingredient? No problem! Here are some substitutes:
1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you want a leaner option, these work well in this recipe and still pack a flavor punch.
2. Capers Instead of Olives: If you’re not a fan of olives, capers provide that briny flavor.
3. Fresh Tomatoes for Canned: If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to swap them in for canned ones.
4. Use Other Vinegars: White vinegar or apple cider vinegar can replace red wine vinegar if it’s not on hand.
Easy Cuban Picadillo Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lb 93% lean ground beef
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp green olives pitted and chopped (or alcaparrado, capers can also be used)
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 ripe tomato chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 2-4 tbsp olive brine
- ½ red bell pepper finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
- 1-2 dried bay leaves
- 4 oz tomato paste about half a can
- ½ large onion diced
- kosher salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Before you start, make sure everything is prepped. Chop your veggies, gather your spices, and grab that ground beef.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large skillet, heat up a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell divine.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
- Push the veggies to the side of the skillet. Add the ground beef and cook it through, breaking it up with a spoon. It should brown nicely, about 7-10 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Flavors
- Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaves. Mix everything together. Aromas will fill your space. Next, add in the chopped tomato, olives, and olive brine for just the right kick.
Step 5: Pour in the Tomato Paste
- Now, stir in the tomato paste and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer. The goal here is to combine those flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Simmer Away
- Lower the heat and let everything dance together. Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally. This is where the picadillo magic happens.
Step 7: Finish With Freshness
- At the end of simmering, stir in red wine vinegar and freshly chopped cilantro. Taste it and adjust the salt and pepper. Your Easy Cuban Picadillo is ready!
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables elevate the flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Allowing the beef to brown properly gives depth to the dish.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, throw in some red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers are Your Friends: This dish gets better overnight.
- Serve Hot: Always serve picadillo while it’s warm to enjoy all the flavors.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Picadillo tastes even better the next day! Make it in advance and store it in the fridge.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free ingredients, such as specific brands of tomato paste, you’re in the clear.
3. Can I freeze picadillo?
Yes! Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.
4. Is it kid-friendly?
Definitely! The flavors are mild enough for kids, and the dish can be served with sides they love, like rice or plantains.
Conclusion
Easy Cuban Picadillo is more than a meal. It’s a journey to sunny kitchens filled with laughter and warmth. I encourage you to try this simple yet flavorful dish. In no time, you’ll be dishing it out with pride and sharing stories around the table as you enjoy each bite.
The smells, the colors, the taste—it all comes together to create a recipe you’ll hold dear. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
