Cuban Picadillo with Ground Beef, Olives, and Raisins
Bring bold, comforting flavors to your table with Cuban Picadillo with Ground Beef, Olives, and Raisins! A delicious mix of seasoned ground beef simmered with tomatoes, briny olives, and sweet raisins for the perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Ingredients
- Main:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)
- 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1/3 cup green olives, sliced (Spanish-style, pimento-stuffed preferred)
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics : Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and bell pepper; cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Cook Garlic and Spices : Stir in garlic, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and cloves; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the Beef : Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Simmer : Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, olives, raisins, tomato paste, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce and Thicken : Lower heat to medium-low, cover partially, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and sauce thickens.
- Taste and Adjust : Remove bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve : Garnish with cilantro or parsley if desired.