Classic Cuban Style Picadillo Recipe

This classic Cuban-style picadillo is a flavorful and comforting dish made with ground beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and an array of spices. It is traditionally served with rice and beans, and is a staple dish in Cuban cuisine. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
• Optional: Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula.
4. Once the ground beef is cooked, add the diced green bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the sliced green olives, raisins, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cinnamon.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir well to combine all the ingredients.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the picadillo simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. If using frozen peas, add them to the skillet during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
9. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
10. Serve the Cuban-style picadillo hot over cooked white rice and with a side of beans.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.

Interesting Facts