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.
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Heat the oil in a large frying pan.
Sauté the crushed garlic, chopped onion, and chopped peppers until softened.
Add the minced beef, pork, and chopped ham.
Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking and to combine flavors.
Add the chopped potatoes, carrots, olives, capers, raisins, tomato sauce, dry wine, sugar, and salt.
Cook over medium heat for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add a little water as needed to maintain a creamy consistency.
Once everything is well-cooked and flavors are blended, remove from heat.
Serve the minced meat hot, accompanied by white rice, a salad of lettuce and watercress, and fried plantains.
Let the meat simmer gently to meld flavors without drying out.
This dish pairs well with white rice or fried plantains.
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.
