Havana-Style Ground Beef, or Picadilla de Carne a la Habanera, is a traditional Cuban dish that marries seasoned ground beef with a delightful mix of vegetables, spices, and occasionally a hint of sweetness from raisins or olives. This dish is perfect for either family dinners or special occasions.
Stuck mid-recipe?
Chefadora AI has the answer - timers, swaps, step-by-step help.
Ingredients
minced beef250g- chopped ham250g
minced pork250g
potatoes2
carrots, chopped3
capers3/4cup
onion1
green pepper1
red pepper1
garlic cloves3- Salt to taste
tomato sauce1/2cup- dry wine1/4cup
olives1/2cup
raisins1/2cup
sugar1/2tsp
oil1/4cup
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
467.7kcal (23.39%)
Protein
37.4g (74.8%)
Carbs
13.1g (4.75%)
Sugars
7.6g (15.12%)
Healthy Fat
15.5g
Unhealthy Fat
11.3g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Habanera Style Minced Meat
- Step 1
Heat the oil in a large frying pan.
- Step 2
Sauté the crushed garlic, chopped onion, and chopped peppers until softened.
- Step 3
Add the minced beef, pork, and chopped ham.
- Step 4
Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking and to combine flavors.
- Step 5
Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, olives, capers, raisins, tomato sauce, dry wine, sugar, and salt.
- Step 6
Cook over medium heat for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 7
Add a little water as needed to maintain a creamy consistency.
- Step 8
Once everything is well-cooked and flavors are blended, remove from heat.
- Step 9
Serve the minced meat hot, accompanied by white rice, a salad of lettuce and watercress, and fried plantains.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
467.7kcal (23.39%)
Protein
37.4g (74.8%)
Carbs
13.1g (4.75%)
Sugars
7.6g (15.12%)
Healthy Fat
15.5g
Unhealthy Fat
11.3g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Let the meat simmer gently to meld flavors without drying out.
This dish pairs well with white rice or fried plantains.
FAQS
Can I make this dish with just one type of meat?
Yes! While the traditional recipe uses a mix of beef, pork, and ham, you can simplify it by using only ground beef or ground pork. Adjust cooking times as needed.
What can I serve with this dish?
Serve with rice and a side of black beans or fried plantains for a complete Cuban meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia