If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and a delightful blend of savory, sweet, and tangy notes, then the Picadillo Verde Recipe is your next kitchen adventure. This traditional Latin American favorite is a comforting ground beef hash that effortlessly combines herbs, spices, olives, and raisins to create a complex yet harmonious taste experience. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just looking for a flavorful, easy-to-make meal, this recipe will quickly become one of your must-haves for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Picadillo Verde might seem like a complicated dish based on its name and flavor profile, but its ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly. Each item plays a special role, from the hearty ground beef that forms the base to the aromatic herbs and the subtle sweetness of raisins, all coming together to craft a balanced and memorable dish.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The star protein providing rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture essential to the dish.
- Onion (1, finely chopped): Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed until soft and fragrant.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a warm, aromatic punch that complements the beef perfectly.
- Green bell pepper (1, finely chopped): Introduces a subtle crunchy texture and fresh, slightly herbal taste.
- Jalapeño pepper (1, seeded and minced): Provides just the right touch of gentle heat without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and a layer of savory depth to keep the dish juicy and tender.
- Cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): Imparts bright, citrusy notes that really elevate the freshness of the recipe.
- Green olives (1/4 cup, chopped): Offer briny sharpness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness and spices.
- Raisins (1/4 cup): Bring subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness and spices for a uniquely satisfying profile.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Provides earthy warmth to tie all the ingredients together.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds herbal complexity characteristic of traditional Latin recipes.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): A surprising touch that lends warmth and subtle sweetness to the mix.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance and balance every bite.
How to Make Picadillo Verde Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned all over. This step is crucial because browning develops flavor through caramelization, giving your Picadillo Verde a rich and hearty base. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Peppers
Next, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, green bell pepper, and the seeded jalapeño pepper directly to the skillet with the beef. Cook everything together until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, about 5 to 7 minutes. This builds layers of flavor and ensures the peppers add just the right amount of texture and heat without overpowering the dish.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth, Herbs, and Unique Ingredients
Now it’s time to stir in the chicken broth, chopped cilantro, green olives, and raisins. These ingredients bring moisture, brightness, and delightful bursts of flavor. Follow this with the ground cumin, dried oregano, and ground cinnamon for that unmistakable Picadillo Verde kick. Mix well to combine all elements evenly.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then lower the heat and let everything simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. This simmering stage is where the magic happens – flavors meld beautifully, the sauce thickens slightly, and the meat becomes tender and infused with the bold but balanced spices.
Step 5: Finish and Remove from Heat
After simmering, your Picadillo Verde is ready! Remove from heat to prevent overcooking and to preserve the fresh brightness of the cilantro. This is the moment when you can take a little taste and adjust seasonings if needed before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve this warm and comforting Picadillo Verde over fluffy white rice or wrapped inside warm tortillas for an authentic experience. This meal is satisfying, flavorful, and perfect for sharing around the table with loved ones.
How to Serve Picadillo Verde Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your dish even more. A sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro imparts freshness and a pop of color. For an extra zing, a squeeze of lime juice just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a lovely citrus contrast.
Side Dishes
Picadillo Verde pairs beautifully with simple sides that enhance its robust flavors. Try serving it alongside steamed white rice to soak up every delicious drop or with warm corn tortillas for a handheld meal. A crisp green salad or refried beans make excellent complements, balancing the richness of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling a bit adventurous? Turn your Picadillo Verde into a filling for enchiladas or use it as a topping for nachos with melted cheese and fresh avocado slices. It also makes a tasty and hearty stuffing for peppers or empanadas, perfect for gatherings and potlucks where you want to impress friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Picadillo Verde tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools slightly before sealing to keep it fresh and delicious.
Freezing
If you want to keep this savory delight for longer, Picadillo Verde freezes very well. Transfer it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Label the containers so you can easily grab a comforting meal anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen Picadillo Verde overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave in a covered dish. Stir occasionally while reheating to ensure even warmth without drying out the meat.
FAQs
What makes Picadillo Verde different from regular picadillo?
Picadillo Verde stands out due to its inclusion of green ingredients like cilantro, green bell peppers, green olives, and jalapeño, giving it a fresh and vibrant flavor compared to the more tomato-based traditional picadillo varieties.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter version of Picadillo Verde. Keep in mind that these meats are leaner, so you might want to add a bit of oil when cooking to maintain juiciness.
Are the raisins necessary in this recipe?
Raisins add a subtle sweetness that balances the savory and salty notes, creating a distinctive and well-rounded flavor profile. However, if you’re not a fan of raisins, you can omit them or substitute with chopped dried apricots for a similar sweet contrast.
How spicy is this Picadillo Verde?
The heat level is mild, thanks to just one jalapeño pepper, which is seeded to reduce spiciness. If you like it spicier, feel free to include the seeds or add extra chili peppers according to your taste.
Can I prepare Picadillo Verde Recipe ahead of a party?
Yes! Picadillo Verde actually tastes fantastic when made a day ahead because the flavors have more time to develop. Just reheat gently before serving, and consider keeping garnishes fresh to add right before presentation.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing Picadillo Verde Recipe, from the way its vibrant flavors come alive on the palate to how easy it is to prepare with wholesome ingredients. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table, whether you’re cooking for family or friends. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and let those bold, fresh tastes brighten up your meal rotation!
Print
Picadillo Verde Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 30m
- Total Time: 0h 45m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Picadillo Verde is a vibrant and flavorful Mexican-inspired ground beef dish cooked with green bell peppers, jalapeño, aromatic spices, and a delightful mix of olives and raisins that add a perfect balance of savory and sweet. This hearty skillet meal is perfect served over rice or with warm tortillas for an authentic taste experience.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
Liquids & Herbs
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Accents
- 1/4 cup chopped green olives
- 1/4 cup raisins
Spices
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is evenly browned. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, green bell pepper, and seeded minced jalapeño pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook this mixture until the vegetables are softened and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Liquids and Flavorings: Stir in the chicken broth, chopped cilantro, chopped green olives, raisins, ground cumin, dried oregano, and ground cinnamon, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Season and Simmer: Season the picadillo mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to simmer gently on medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the liquid reduce slightly.
- Finish Cooking: After simmering, remove the skillet from heat once the mixture has thickened to your liking and the flavors are fully developed.
- Serve: Serve the Picadillo Verde hot, ideally over steamed rice or with warm tortillas for a complete meal. Enjoy the savory and slightly sweet notes of this comforting dish!
Notes
- Adjust jalapeño quantity depending on your heat preference.
- Raisins add a nice sweetness that balances the savory meat; you can reduce or omit if preferred.
- Green olives provide a subtle briny flavor; sliced black olives can be a substitute if needed.
- Serve with rice or warm corn/flour tortillas for a traditional pairing.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.
