Picadillo Sliders

Picadillo Sliders are a delightful fusion of Latin flavors and American comfort food, perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering. These mini burgers feature a savory, spiced ground beef mixture, known as picadillo, traditionally made with a blend of ground beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, olives, and a touch of sweetness from raisins. The mixture is spooned onto soft slider buns, creating a juicy, flavorful bite that’s both hearty and satisfying. The sweet, salty, and tangy flavors of the picadillo are balanced perfectly with a fresh cilantro-lime slaw, adding a refreshing crunch to each bite. These sliders are sure to be a hit at your next meal or party!

Ingredients:

For the Picadillo:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Slaw:

• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 12 slider buns
• Optional: slices of pickled jalapeños, extra cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Picadillo:
   1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
   2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   3. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
   4. Add the diced tomatoes, green olives, raisins, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
   5. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the liquid to reduce slightly. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2. Prepare the Slaw:
   1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro, lime juice, and mayonnaise.
   2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Sliders:
   1. Toast the slider buns lightly if desired.
   2. Spoon a generous amount of the picadillo mixture onto the bottom half of each slider bun.
   3. Top with a spoonful of the cilantro-lime slaw.
   4. Add pickled jalapeños and extra cilantro if using.
   5. Place the top half of the bun on each slider and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Picadillo Sliders with a side of chips, plantains, or a refreshing beverage!