Homemade Picadillo For Dinner

Homemade Picadillo is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together hearty ingredients in a deliciously satisfying meal. This traditional Latin American recipe features tender ground beef cooked with diced potatoes, sweet corn, and aromatic seasonings, simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with cumin and garlic. Garnished with fresh cilantro, this dish pairs perfectly with fluffy rice and warm tortillas, making it

Homemade Picadillo For Dinner

Ingredients:

2Ibs ground beef

5 potatoes peeled and diced

Half a can of el pato ( hot tomato sauce)

Half a can of regular tomato sauce

alf a large onion chopped

1 can corn drained

1 bottle beef broth or enough to cover potatoes

Hand full cilantro

Cumin to taste

Garlic powder to taste

Salt to taste

Instructions:

In a large non stick pan add ground beef cook until browned (strain) one done and strained add in tomato sauce and mix add beef broth, potatoes, corn and seasoning to taste mix well cover and simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes or until potatoes are done serve with rice and tortillas!

Enjoy !!

Notes:

Choose Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to minimize excess fat that needs straining after browning. This can make your dish healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Brown the Beef Properly: Ensure the ground beef is evenly browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish. Break up any clumps of meat with a wooden spoon or spatula for even cooking.

Balance Tomato Sauces: Adjust the ratio of El Pato (hot tomato sauce) and regular tomato sauce based on your preference for spiciness. You can also start with less El Pato and add more later to control the heat level.

Control the Salt: Be mindful of the salt content in both the beef broth and the canned ingredients (like corn). Taste as you season to avoid oversalting the dish.

Simmering Time: Check the potatoes periodically while simmering. Depending on their size and the heat level, they may cook faster or slower than expected. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

Enhance with Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness to the dish. Add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant flavor and color.

Serve with Complementary Sides: While rice and tortillas are traditional accompaniments, consider serving with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal.

Make Ahead for Flavor Development: Picadillo often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld. Consider making it ahead and reheating gently before serving.

Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning levels of cumin, garlic powder, and other spices according to your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to add a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of vinegar for a touch of acidity if desired.

Experiment with Additions: Picadillo is versatile. You can add diced bell peppers, olives, or raisins for additional flavor and texture variation.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.

Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is “el pato” necessary, or can I use a different hot tomato sauce?

You can use a different hot tomato sauce if “el pato” is not available.

Choose a hot tomato sauce that suits your taste preferences.

Can I use frozen corn instead of canned corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn instead of canned corn.

Just make sure to thaw it before adding it to the recipe.

What’s the best way to adjust the seasoning to taste?

Start with smaller amounts of cumin, garlic powder, and salt, then taste and adjust as needed before the final simmer.

This allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.

Can I make this recipe in advance and reheat it?

Yes, you can make the picadillo ahead of time.

Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

If it thickens upon reheating, you can add a little more beef broth to reach the desired consistency.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.

Adjust cooking times accordingly.