Picadillo is a dish mainly consisting of ground beef typically found in Cuba, Mexico, and other Latin American countries. In Mexico it is sometimes used as a filling, such as for tacos, and can be mixed with vegetables. It can also be prepared as a type of stew. In most other Latin American countries it consists of a common table from where people pick small beef pieces or other food such as french fries. The name comes from the Spanish word, “picar” which means “to mince” or “to chop”.

Picadillo is a traditional dish in many Latin American countries; it’s made with ground meat, tomatoes, and regional ingredients. The Cuban version includes olives and on occasion capers, omits chili powder, and is usually served with black beans and rice.

In the Philippines, picadillo is traditionally made with beef and either potatoes or chayote.

Estimated cooking time: 50 minutes

• 2 tablespoons oil 1 small onion, chopped
  
• 3/4 kg (1 1/2 lb) minced beef
• 1 1/2 liters ( 6 cups) beef stock or water

• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 small carrot, peeled and diced
• 50 g (1 cup) spinach leaves (optional)
• 2 tablespoons patis (fish sauce)
• Salt and pepper to taste

• Heat oil in a casserole or large saucepan and saute onion until transparent, 1 to 2 minutes.

• Add garlic and saute until fragrant, about 1 minute.

• Stir in minced beef and cook until brown.
  

• Pour in stock or water and bring to the boil then simmer over medium heat.
  

• Add diced potatoes and carrots and simmer until potatoes and carrots are tender, about 10 minutes.
  

• Stir in spinach leaves if desired and heat through.
  

• Season with patis, salt and pepper.

Related Reading:

The Joy of Pickling: 250 Flavor-Packed Recipes for Vegetables and More from Garden or Market (Revised Edition)Since its original publication in 1998, this book has been considered the go-to guide for those who like it sour, salty, and tangy. Author Ziedrich go... Read More >

Grandma's Best Casseroles (Grandma's Best Recipes)One of the easiest meals to make is a one-dish casserole that you can serve with garlic toast, a quick salad or some other accompaniment that is quick... Read More >

Please Recommend this Recipe: