Why Make This Recipe
Mexican Picadillo is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors in a heartwarming way. It’s a one-pot meal that’s not only easy to make, but it also holds a unique place in many families’ kitchens.
This recipe showcases a blend of ground beef, potatoes, and spices that create a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion. Plus, it’s customizable—you can add more vegetables or spices based on your family’s preferences.
Equipment Needed for Mexican Picadillo
To prepare a delicious Mexican Picadillo, gather the following equipment:
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Serving dishes
What You Need to Make Mexican Picadillo
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into half-inch cubes
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced into half-inch cubes
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
How to Cook Mexican Picadillo Step by Step
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Keep cooking until it’s browned all over. If there’s excess fat in the pan, drain it out to keep your dish light.
Next, incorporate the chopped onion into the skillet. Cook it until softened, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Once the onion has softened, add in the minced garlic. Cook that for 1 minute more until it becomes aromatic. It’s important to keep everything at medium-high heat to ensure the flavors meld together well.
Then you will stir in the diced potatoes and carrots. Cook these vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. After that, pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juice and the beef broth.
Continue by adding the ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to stir well to combine all these ingredients thoroughly. After mixing, bring the entire mixture to a simmer. Once it reaches that simmering point, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and cook for about 20 to 25 minutes. This time allows the potatoes and carrots to tenderize nicely.
Occasionally, stir the mixture to avoid sticking. When the potatoes and carrots are fork-tender, it’s time to stir in the thawed frozen peas. Let those cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until everything is heated through nicely. Once you finish cooking, serve the Picadillo hot for the best flavor.
How to Make Mexican Picadillo
Making Mexican Picadillo is a straightforward process that requires basic cooking skills. Start with your ground beef as the base, which adds heartiness to the dish. The combination of fresh vegetables and spices gives it a vibrant flavor profile that is truly satisfying.
It’s all about timing and ensuring each ingredient is cooked perfectly before moving on to the next step. This method not only allows the flavors to build but also ensures an even cooking process. The use of one pot makes clean-up easy and is perfect for busy families.
How to Serve Mexican Picadillo
Essentially, you can serve Mexican Picadillo in a variety of ways. It can be plated up in a bowl with a side of rice or placed inside warmed tortillas for tacos. This versatility allows you to adapt your meal to what you and your family prefer.
For an extra flavorful experience, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime on top can add a refreshing touch. You can also serve it with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
What to Serve with Mexican Picadillo
There are many great sides that complement Mexican Picadillo well. Serving it with white or Spanish rice offers a nice balance. Additionally, crispy fried plantains can add a sweet twist to your meal.
You might also consider refried beans, which enhance the Mexican theme while providing more texture. A fresh salad made with chopped avocado, tomatoes, and lime juice can bring a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the rich Picadillo.
How to Store Mexican Picadillo
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is quite simple. First, allow the Picadillo to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps to keep it fresh for longer.
You can refrigerate the leftovers for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Mexican Picadillo can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date for easy reference.
Tips to Make Mexican Picadillo
If you want to elevate your Mexican Picadillo, consider these tips. Using fresh spices will enhance the flavor significantly. If possible, opt for high-quality ground beef to ensure a rich and satisfying taste.
Chopping the vegetables uniformly allows for even cooking, which is key to a perfect texture. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini as a variation. Don’t be afraid to tweak the spices according to your taste—adding a touch of chili powder or jalapeños can introduce a fun kick.
Variation
There are numerous variations of Mexican Picadillo. Some people like to include raisins or olives, which can provide a unique sweetness or briny flavor to the dish.
You can also swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. This variation works well while still maintaining the essence of the dish. Consider experimenting with different herbs, such as bay leaves or thyme, to discover your personal touch.
Best Time to Make Mexican Picadillo
Mexican Picadillo is suitable for any time of year, but it shines particularly well during the colder months. It’s a hearty dish that provides warmth and comfort, making it excellent for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
However, a busy weeknight is an equally great opportunity to make this dish due to its quick cooking time. It keeps well, so it also serves as a fantastic meal prep option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake when making Mexican Picadillo is overcooking the vegetables, which can lead to mushiness. Aim for tender but firm vegetables for the best texture.
Another mistake is under-seasoning; the right amount of spices is crucial. Don’t skip on tasting throughout the cooking process to adjust seasoning as needed. Lastly, ensure to drain excess fat from the ground beef properly; this step keeps the dish from becoming greasy.
Nutritional Notes
Mexican Picadillo is not only delicious but also nutritionally rewarding. It contains protein from the ground beef, as well as a variety of vegetables that provide essential vitamins and minerals.
By incorporating different vegetables, you essentially boost the nutrient content. Serving it with rice provides a good source of carbohydrates, making it a well-rounded meal on its own.
FAQs
Can I make Mexican Picadillo ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator or freezer and reheat before serving.
Can I make Mexican Picadillo vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mix of beans and still achieve a hearty dish.
How can I add more spice to the Picadillo?
If you enjoy heat, feel free to add some chili powder, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Mexican Picadillo is a straightforward yet flavorful dish that serves as a fantastic family meal. Its combination of ground beef, vegetables, and spices creates a nourishing and satisfying experience.
Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a filling in tacos or burritos, it’s a dish everyone can appreciate. With easy preparation and countless variations, this recipe is sure to earn a favorite spot in your recipe rotation.
