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Cuban Picadillo

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Cuban Picadillo is a classic ground beef dish simmered with tomatoes, garlic, onions, olives, and raisins, delivering a delicious balance of savory and sweet flavors. It’s versatile, comforting, and perfect served over rice or used as a filling.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon capers, 1/4 cup white wine, or 1 teaspoon vinegar

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  5. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), raisins, olives, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  6. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning to taste.
  8. Serve hot over rice or use as a filling for empanadas, tacos, or plantains.

Notes

Rinse olives if you prefer a less salty dish.Omit raisins for a strictly savory version.Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.Great for meal prep—flavors deepen overnight.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/cuban-picadillo/