Cuban cuisine is known for its dishes where flavor and color are essential, combining ingredients with aromatic herbs and seasonings like oregano, cumin, and pepper. This Cuban Picadillo is a flavorful dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, and a variety of seasonings, with a special touch from raisins, green olives, and capers. It's a hearty and easy-to-make dish that pairs beautifully with steamed potatoes or white rice.
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Heat oil in a pot and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the chopped tomatoes and capers. Stir and cook for 5 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the mixture and cook until the meat is fully cooked.
Add the green olives, cumin, oregano, pepper, and bay leaves. Cook over very low heat for 30 minutes.
After 30 minutes, add the raisins, peas, and white wine. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
For a more authentic flavor, use Spanish green olives with pimentos.
If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, increase the amount of raisins.
Serve with white rice or steamed potatoes to balance the flavors of the dish.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor.
What can I use instead of white wine?
You can use chicken or beef broth as a substitute for white wine.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Cuban Picadillo can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors often deepen when stored overnight.
Are there any vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?
You can replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegetarian version.
What type of rice pairs best with this dish?
White rice is the traditional pairing, but you can also serve it with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
