Description
Cuban Picadillo is a hearty and flavorful ground beef and pork stew infused with classic Cuban spices, olives, and raisins. This savory dish combines tender meats with aromatic herbs, tomatoes, and a touch of sweetness from the raisins, making it a perfect comfort food served over white rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 green pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
Meats
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
Spices and Herbs
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 bay leaves
Liquids and Others
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 (14oz) can diced tomatoes
- 3/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup water or broth
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup green olives, halved
- Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions
- Prepare aromatics: In a large pot, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add diced onions and green peppers. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.
- Cook the meats and spices: Add the ground beef, ground pork, oregano, cumin, ground cinnamon, and minced garlic to the pot. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 to 10 minutes until the meat is mostly cooked through with just a hint of pink remaining.
- Simmer the stew: Stir in the diced tomatoes, dry white wine, water or broth, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend flavors and reduce the liquid slightly.
- Add raisins and olives: Incorporate the raisins and halved green olives into the pot. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the sweetness and briny flavors to meld into the stew.
- Finish and serve: Remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaves. Serve the Cuban Picadillo immediately, accompanied by freshly cooked white rice to soak up the savory sauce.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute broth for the water.
- Adjust the cinnamon quantity based on your personal preference for spice warmth.
- Use green olives with pimentos for extra color and flavor.
- Picadillo can be made ahead and reheated; flavors often improve after resting.
- Serve with lime wedges for a citrusy contrast if desired.
