Puerto Rican Picadillo is a savory and aromatic ground beef dish that is a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine. It’s a versatile dish often used as a filling for empanadas, pastelillos, or served over rice. This flavorful recipe features ground beef simmered with a mix of spices, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, olives, and raisins, creating a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors. The addition of capers and a touch of acidity from the vinegar rounds out this traditional dish, offering a rich and comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Puerto Rican Picadillo is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the beef:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Incorporate the tomato base:
- Stir in the tomato sauce and tomato paste, mixing well to combine with the beef and vegetables.
- Add olives, capers, and raisins:
- Stir in the sliced olives, capers, and raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Season the picadillo:
- Add the white vinegar, cumin, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to incorporate the spices and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Simmer the picadillo:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the picadillo simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve:
- Once the picadillo is thickened and fragrant, remove it from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or use as a filling for empanadas or tacos.
Enjoy your Puerto Rican Picadillo as a flavorful and comforting dish that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your home, offering a delightful mix of savory and sweet flavors perfect for any occasion!
