Authentic Cuban Beef Picadillo: A Heartwarming Family Favorite

Authentic Cuban Beef Picadillo combines savory ground beef with tangy olives and sweet raisins, creating a heartwarming family favorite.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Cuban

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Picadillo

1 lb Ground Beef or ground turkey for a lighter option
1 Onion chopped, preferably yellow
1 Bell Pepper diced, any color
3 Garlic Cloves minced
1 cup Tomato Sauce canned or fresh crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup Green Olives sliced
1/3 cup Raisins optional
1 tsp Ground Cumin
1 tsp Dried Oregano
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper

Serving Suggestions

to serve White Rice to soak up the sauce
to serve Black Beans for added protein
to serve Fried Plantains for sweetness

Equipment

Large Skillet

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion, 1 diced bell pepper, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart. Cook for 6–8 minutes until browned.
Stir in 1 cup of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3 minutes.
Mix in 1/2 cup of sliced green olives and 1/3 cup of raisins. Simmer on low for 5–10 minutes, stirring gently.
Serve warm over a bed of fluffy white rice, alongside black beans and crispy fried plantains.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure to use fresh ground beef for tenderness. Simmering longer enhances flavor.

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