Here’s a classic, authentic Mexican picadillo recipe—hearty, savory, slightly sweet, and full of the warm flavors of Mexico. It’s perfect for tacos, rice, or even as a filling for empanadas. 🌿🍅
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup green olives, sliced
- ½ cup raisins
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced small (optional)
- 1 medium carrot, diced small (optional)
- 1 small bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground cloves (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup beef or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer color)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic; cook until soft and fragrant (~3–4 minutes).
2️⃣ Brown the Meat
- Add ground beef.
- Break up large chunks with a spoon.
- Cook until browned and no longer pink (~5–7 minutes).
3️⃣ Add Vegetables and Spices
- Stir in tomatoes, bell pepper, carrots, and potatoes.
- Add cumin, cinnamon, cloves (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Cook 5 minutes until vegetables soften slightly.
4️⃣ Sweet & Savory Touch
- Stir in raisins, green olives, tomato paste (if using), and broth.
- Mix well and reduce heat to low.
5️⃣ Simmer
- Cover and simmer 15–20 minutes until the potatoes and carrots are tender and the mixture is saucy.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6️⃣ Finish & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
- Over white or Spanish rice
- Stuffed in tacos, burritos, or empanadas
- Served with warm tortillas
- As a filling for bell peppers
Tips for Authentic Flavor
- Balance sweet and savory: Raisins give a subtle sweetness; olives add briny depth.
- Spices: Cinnamon is key—it gives a warm, signature Mexican note.
- Texture: Dice vegetables finely so they blend with the meat.
- Optional extras: Pine nuts, capers, or chopped almonds can add extra texture and flavor.
If you want, I can also give a faster, weeknight version that keeps it authentic but cuts prep time in half.
Do you want me to do that?
