Cuban Pork Picadillo with Rice is a beloved comfort dish that represents the heart of Cuban home cooking. “Picadillo” comes from the Spanish word picar, meaning “to chop,” and this dish traditionally features finely ground or minced meat simmered in a savory-sweet tomato-based sauce.

What makes Cuban picadillo especially unique is its signature balance of flavors—savory pork, tangy tomatoes, sweet raisins, briny green olives, and warm spices like cumin and bay leaf.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s full of character and comforting nostalgia. The contrast of sweet raisins and salty olives creates a flavor profile that’s bold yet perfectly balanced. It’s also incredibly versatile—easy enough for a weeknight dinner, yet special enough to serve to guests.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Authentic Cuban flavors in one comforting bowl
• Perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory
• Easy, one-pan main dish
• Great for leftovers and meal prep
• Family-friendly and filling

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings, Calories, Course & Cuisine

• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~520 calories per serving (with rice)
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Cuban / Caribbean

Ingredients

For the Pork Picadillo

• 1 lb (450 g) ground pork
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• ¼ cup dry white wine (or broth)
• ⅓ cup green olives, sliced
• ¼ cup raisins
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)

Cooking Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
5. Drain excess fat if necessary.
6. Stir in tomato sauce and white wine.
7. Add olives, raisins, cumin, oregano, and bay leaf.
8. Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Season with salt and pepper and remove bay leaf.
10. Serve hot over white rice.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prep ingredients: Chop vegetables and measure spices.
2. Sauté aromatics: Build the flavor base with onion and pepper.
3. Brown pork: Cook until fully browned and flavorful.
4. Create sauce: Add tomato sauce and wine.
5. Season: Stir in olives, raisins, and spices.
6. Simmer: Let flavors meld and sauce thicken.
7. Finish & serve: Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning.

How to Serve

Serve Cuban pork picadillo generously over steamed white rice. Add fried plantains (plátanos maduros), a simple avocado salad, or black beans on the side for a traditional Cuban-style meal.

Recipe Tips

• Use good-quality olives for best flavor
• Adjust raisins to taste if you prefer less sweetness
• Let picadillo simmer uncovered for richer flavor
• Tastes even better the next day

Variations (In Detail)

• Beef Picadillo: Substitute ground beef for pork
• Picadillo with Potatoes: Add diced potatoes for heartiness
• Spicy Picadillo: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños
• Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice
• Stuffed Picadillo: Use as filling for empanadas or tacos

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezing: Freeze picadillo (without rice) for up to 2 months
• Reheating: Reheat on stovetop or microwave until heated through

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make picadillo ahead of time?
A: Yes, it tastes even better the next day.

Q: Are raisins traditional in Cuban picadillo?
A: Yes, they’re a classic ingredient that adds sweetness.

Q: Can I omit olives?
A: You can, but they add essential briny flavor.

Q: What rice works best?
A: Plain white rice or Cuban-style garlic rice.

Conclusion

Cuban Pork Picadillo with Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish that captures the soul of Cuban cuisine. With its rich tomato sauce, tender pork, and signature sweet-and-salty contrast, it’s a meal that feels both nostalgic and satisfying. Perfect for family dinners, leftovers, or sharing with friends, this picadillo is a recipe you’ll return to again and again.