This is a classic Mexican recipe that’s so easy to make and even easier to eat. It’s a tasty and cozy meal that combines a selection of hearty ingredients such as tender beef with satisfying potatoes, sweet corn, and a juicy tomato sauce with garlic and cumin.
Whether you enjoy your homemade picadillo with warm tortillas or fluffy rice, you’re going to love the rich flavors in every mouthful. Not only is it a beloved dish in Mexico but it’s also popular in the Philippines as well as cuba.
There are different versions and some have olives, raisins and other add-ins. The word picadillo comes from picar, the Spanish word for “to mince”, as it’s made primarily with ground, or minced, meat. The dish used to be called picadillo con ave because it was made with minced chicken rather than ground beef.
Why You’ll Love the Recipe:
This recipe is incredibly easy to make and it tastes so good. You can include any tasty add-ins you want and adjust the spice level.
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How to Serve It:
Homemade picadillo is delicious served hot and paired with tortillas and rice.
Can You Make It Ahead?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and warm it back up later if you want.
Storage Instructions:
Leftovers will keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Variations and Substitutions:
Adjust the seasonings if you wish, adding your own preferred amounts of garlic, cumin and other spices. If you think the dish needs a little more acidity you can add a little vinegar or lime juice. Optional extras include diced bell peppers, raisins or sliced black olives.
Homemade Picadillo for Dinner
Ingredients
- 5 peeled chopped potatoes
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ½ chopped yellow onion
- 1 can corn kernels drained
- ½ can tomato sauce
- ½ can spicy tomato sauce El Pato brand or similar
- Enough beef broth to cover the potatoes
- Ground cumin garlic powder and salt, to taste
- Cilantro as needed
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot and drain off the excess grease.
- Add the tomato sauce, broth, potatoes, corn, and seasonings.
- Stir well, cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Serve garnished with cilantro sprigs or leaves.
- Enjoy!