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Cuban Beef Picadillo

Savor the Flavor: Easy Cuban Beef Picadillo Recipe

Cuban Beef Picadillo is a flavorful dish combining ground beef, raisins, and olives, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner Ideas
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat
  • 1 lb ground beef choose lean beef for a healthier option
For the Sweet & Salty Twist
  • ¼ cup olives use green olives for a tangy bite
  • ¼ cup raisins they add a sweet contrast
For the Spices
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin essential for authentic Cuban flavor
  • 1 teaspoon oregano brings a touch of earthiness
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper balances the sweetness of the raisins
For the Base
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil use extra virgin for richer taste
  • ¼ cup onion, chopped adds aromatic depth
  • ¼ cup bell pepper, chopped choose any color for flavor
  • ¼ cup tomato sauce adds moisture and acidity
  • ¼ cup garlic, minced infuses the dish with goodness

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes until shimmering.
  2. Add ¼ cup of chopped onion and ¼ cup of chopped bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in ¼ cup of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart while cooking for 7-10 minutes until browned.
  5. Mix in 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of oregano, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, followed by ¼ cup of olives, ¼ cup of raisins, and ¼ cup of tomato sauce.
  6. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Serve hot with sides like white rice, black beans, or fried plantains.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Opt for lean ground beef and keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing to avoid burning. Adjust raisins and olives to your taste.

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