Name: Brazilian Picadillo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp oil; 2 onions, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 20g garlic, chopped; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp cumin; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp ground cloves; ½ tsp chili powder; ½ tsp black pepper; 800g lean beef mince; 75g raisins; 100g green or black olives, sliced; 800g chopped tomatoes; 30ml white wine vinegar

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Balanced Flavors: The combination of sweet raisins, savory beef, and tangy olives offers a unique and satisfying taste experience.
Nutritious: Packed with protein and a balanced macronutrient profile, it’s a wholesome meal option.
Versatile: Enjoy it with rice, in tacos, or as a standalone dish.
Meal Prep Friendly: Reheats well, making it ideal for batch cooking and meal planning.
Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, it’s accessible even for novice cooks.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon oil
2 onions, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
20g garlic, chopped
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
800g lean beef mince
75g raisins
100g green or black olives, sliced
800g chopped tomatoes
30ml white wine vinegar

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and green pepper, frying for a couple of minutes until they begin to soften.
Add Spices and Garlic: Incorporate the chopped garlic, cinnamon, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, ground cloves, chili powder, and black pepper. Fry for an additional minute to release the aromas.
Brown the Beef: Add the lean beef mince to the pan, cooking for several minutes until it’s browned evenly.
Combine Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the raisins, sliced olives, chopped tomatoes, and white wine vinegar. Mix thoroughly to combine all elements.
Simmer: Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for approximately 40 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Serve: Once cooked, serve the picadillo hot over rice, in tacos, or enjoy it on its own.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Protein Alternatives: Substitute beef with turkey for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with lentils or a plant-based mince alternative to create a vegetarian version.
Additional Vegetables: Incorporate diced carrots, peas, or potatoes to enhance the nutritional value and add texture.
Spice Level Adjustment: Modify the amount of chili powder to suit your preferred heat level.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow the picadillo to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until thoroughly heated. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Freezing: Picadillo freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What is Picadillo?

Picadillo is a traditional Latin American dish made with minced meat, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It’s known for its sweet and savory flavor profile, often incorporating ingredients like raisins and olives.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, picadillo’s flavors often deepen over time, making it an excellent dish to prepare in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with Picadillo?

Picadillo pairs well with white or brown rice, quinoa, or can be used as a filling for tacos, empanadas, or stuffed peppers.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes chili powder, which adds a mild heat. Adjust the amount to your preference or omit it entirely for a non-spicy version.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

White wine vinegar is recommended for its mild flavor, but apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute if needed.

How can I make the dish more budget-friendly?

Using frozen vegetables, substituting beef with ground turkey, or incorporating more legumes like lentils can reduce costs while maintaining nutrition and flavor.

Are there regional variations of Picadillo?

Yes, picadillo varies by region. For example, Cuban versions might include capers and potatoes, while Mexican picadillo often features almonds and