Mexican Picadillo Recipe

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Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced, divided
• 4 Roma tomatoes, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded (or more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon granules (such as Knorr)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 cup water, from boiled tomatoes
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups cubed russet potatoes

Directions

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. This will help streamline the cooking process.
2. In a skillet, combine the ground beef and half of the diced onion. Cook over medium heat, using a spatula to break up the beef as it browns. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and crumbly, and the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once done, drain any excess liquid.
3. While the beef is cooking, place the remaining half of the onion, tomatoes, garlic, and jalapeno in a pot. Add enough water to cover the ingredients, then bring the mixture to a boil. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes have burst and the onion and jalapeno have softened.
4. Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the cooked tomatoes, onion, garlic, and jalapeno into a blender. Add about half of the cooking water from the pot, along with the chicken bouillon granules, oregano, and cumin. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Next, add the diced potatoes to the browned ground beef mixture. Stir frequently, allowing the potatoes to cook for 4 to 5 minutes.
6. Pour the blended tomato mixture into the skillet with the beef and potatoes. Stir to combine and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 3 to 5 minutes more. Season with additional salt and pepper if desired.
7. Once the potatoes are tender, your dish is ready to serve!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 421
• Fat: 20g
• Carbs: 25g
• Protein: 34g

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Total Fat	20g	26%
Saturated Fat	8g	38%
Cholesterol	101mg	34%
Sodium	314mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	25g	9%
Dietary Fiber	3g	12%
Total Sugars	4g	-
Protein	34g	68%
Vitamin C	22mg	24%
Calcium	72mg	6%
Iron	5mg	25%
Potassium	1117mg	24%

The Rich History of Mexican Picadillo

Mexican Picadillo has a history that stretches back centuries, rooted in the fusion of indigenous Mexican ingredients with Spanish culinary influences brought during the colonial period. Originally, picadillo was a way to utilize leftover meat and vegetables, finely chopped or picado in Spanish, combined with spices to create a hearty, flavorful dish. Over time, it evolved into a staple of Mexican home cooking, cherished for its adaptability and comforting taste.

Regional Variations and Local Twists

Across Mexico, picadillo takes on unique regional characteristics. In central Mexico, it often features potatoes and carrots in a tomato-based sauce, while coastal areas may include olives, raisins, or capers for a sweeter, tangier profile. In the Yucatn, local variations might incorporate achiote or tropical fruits, giving the dish a vibrant, aromatic dimension. Each region tailors picadillo to reflect local flavors, making it both a versatile and culturally significant recipe.

Distinguishing Picadillo from Similar Dishes

Although it resembles other ground meat dishes like chili con carne or shepherds pie, Mexican picadillo is distinct due to its finely diced combination of vegetables, meat, and spices simmered together in a light tomato sauce. Unlike chili, it rarely includes beans, and unlike shepherds pie, it is not baked with a mashed potato topping. Its hallmark is the harmonious balance of savory, slightly sweet, and spiced flavors that make it uniquely Mexican.

Typical Serving Occasions

Picadillo is commonly served as a main course for family dinners, accompanied by rice, beans, or tortillas. It is also popular as a filling for tacos, tamales, or empanadas, and sometimes as a topping for tostadas or nachos. Its versatility means it can be enjoyed in everyday meals or at festive gatherings, often prepared in larger quantities to share with extended family.

Interesting Facts About Mexican Picadillo

• The word picadillo literally means little pieces in Spanish, highlighting the finely chopped ingredients used in the dish.
• Traditional picadillo recipes often incorporate both sweet and savory elements, like raisins or capers, creating a unique flavor profile.
• In Mexican culture, picadillo is considered a comfort food, evoking home-cooked family meals and nostalgic flavors.
• Picadillo is highly adaptable and can be made with ground beef, pork, turkey, or even vegetarian alternatives, reflecting local preferences and dietary needs.
• Despite its simplicity, picadillo demonstrates the Mexican culinary principle of combining fresh, seasonal ingredients with bold seasoning to create depth of flavor.

FAQ about Mexican Picadillo Recipe

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