Picadillo de Papa
Picadillo de Papa is a hearty and flavorful dish from Cuban cuisine, featuring seasoned ground beef, potatoes, and a medley of spices. This easy-to-make recipe combines savory ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and olives to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether served with rice, tortillas, or on its own, Picadillo de Papa offers a rich and versatile option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 medium potatoes, diced (about 0.9 lb / 400 g)
- 1 onion, chopped (0.5 lb / 225 g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (0.3 lb / 135 g)
- 1/2 cup (120 g) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup (60 g) green olives, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Cook the Potatoes
In a pot, boil the diced potatoes in salted water for 10-12 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
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Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
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Season and Simmer
Stir in the cumin, paprika, and black pepper. Add the tomato sauce, olives, and water, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Add the Potatoes
Gently fold in the cooked potatoes, mixing until they're well-coated with the beef and sauce. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste.
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Garnish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot.
Serving
Picadillo de Papa can be served with steamed rice, warm tortillas, or over a bed of greens. It’s a versatile dish perfect for any meal, providing comfort and bold flavors in every bite.
Picadillo de Papa is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that brings together classic Cuban flavors in a single skillet. The combination of ground beef, potatoes, and aromatic spices creates a comforting meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.
