Mexican Picadillo Recipe

Introduction

Mexican Picadillo is a flavorful and hearty dish made with ground beef, potatoes, and a medley of spices and vegetables. This traditional recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner, and it’s versatile enough to serve with rice, tortillas, or as a filling for tacos. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious and authentic Mexican Picadillo at home.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound potatoes, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 poblano pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can tomatoes, crushed (or large tomatoes, diced)
• 1 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the Beef:

• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until it is browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

1. Reserve Grease:

• Set the cooked beef aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of the grease in the pan.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

3. Sauté Vegetables:

• Add the diced potatoes, onion, poblano pepper, and jalapeno pepper to the skillet with the reserved grease.
• Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

3. Add Garlic and Spices:

• Add the chopped garlic and 1 teaspoon of paprika to the skillet.
• Mix well and cook until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients and Simmer

5. Combine with Beef:

• Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet.
• Add the crushed tomatoes (or diced tomatoes) and 1 cup of beef broth.

5. Simmer:

• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Season and Serve

7. Season:

• Season the Picadillo with salt and pepper to taste.
• Stir well to ensure all the flavors are well combined.

7. Serve:

• Serve hot with rice, tortillas, or as a filling for tacos. Enjoy your homemade Mexican Picadillo!

Tips for Perfect Picadillo

• Spice Level:
• Adjust the number of jalapenos or use a milder pepper if you prefer a less spicy dish.
• Vegetable Variations:
• You can add other vegetables like peas or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make-Ahead:
• Picadillo tastes even better the next day. Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers for easy meals throughout the week.
• Storage:
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use a combination of beans and vegetables.

What should I serve with Mexican Picadillo?

Mexican Picadillo can be served with rice, tortillas, or used as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. It also pairs well with a simple side salad.

Can I add other spices to the Picadillo?

Feel free to experiment with other spices such as chili powder, coriander, or smoked paprika to customize the flavor to your liking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Picadillo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Mexican Picadillo is a versatile and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it with rice, in tacos, or as a filling for enchiladas, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich, savory taste of this traditional Mexican dish and savor every bite!