How to Make Classic Beef Picadillo with Potatoes and Raisins

Simple Summary

Beef Picadillo with Potatoes and Raisins is a hearty, flavorful Latin American dish that combines savory ground beef with tender potatoes and sweet raisins for a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 1 can (14.5 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
• 1/3 cup (50g) raisins
• 1/4 cup (60ml) white vinegar
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink.

5. Add the diced potatoes, diced tomatoes, raisins, white vinegar, tomato paste, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.

6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded.

7. Remove the bay leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Let the picadillo rest for 5 minutes before serving.

9. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve hot.

Chef's Notes

• For a spicier version, add 1-2 diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the onions.
• You can substitute ground turkey for beef if preferred.
• If the mixture becomes too dry during cooking, add a splash of beef broth or water.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• For a twist, try adding 1/4 cup of sliced green olives or 1/4 cup of chopped almonds for extra texture and flavor.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (based on 6 servings): Approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 18g fat. This dish is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and iron. The lean beef provides essential protein, while the potatoes offer complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over steamed white rice or with warm tortillas on the side.
• Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Garnish with sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
• For a complete meal, serve alongside black beans and fried plantains.
• This dish pairs well with a light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp lager beer.