Authentic Mexican Picadillo Recipe

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Authentic Mexican Picadillo Recipe

Picadillo is a classic, hearty dish that embodies the heart and soul of Mexican home cooking. Its rich combination of ground beef, tender potatoes, and a smoky, spicy roasted sauce makes it incredibly versatile. Serve it with rice, tortillas, or use it as a filling for tacos, empanadas, or stuffed peppers—the possibilities are endless!

This recipe highlights the authenticity and simplicity of traditional Picadillo while allowing for customizable flavors to suit your preferences.

Why You’ll Love Picadillo

  • Versatile: A multi-purpose dish perfect for tacos, enchiladas, stuffed peppers, or served simply with rice.
  • Packed with Flavor: The roasted sauce brings a smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy dimension.
  • Comforting: A one-pan wonder that’s easy to make, yet deeply satisfying.

Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Picadillo

For the Picadillo

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20): For a juicy, flavorful base.
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes: Add a soft texture and balance the heat.
  • ½ cup onion, diced: Enhances the dish with a touch of sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Roasted Sauce

  • 2 Roma tomatoes: Provide a tangy, rich base for the sauce.
  • 3 jalapeños and 1 serrano pepper: For that signature Mexican spice (adjust to taste).
  • 2 cloves garlic: Boosts the savory flavor.
  • ¼ cup water: Helps blend the roasted ingredients into a smooth sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon oil: For roasting the vegetables.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

  1. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a small frying pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the Roma tomatoes, jalapeños, serrano pepper, and garlic to the pan. Roast them, turning occasionally, until the skins are charred and blistered (about 8-10 minutes).
    • Tip: Roasting the vegetables adds a deep, smoky flavor that elevates the dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

  1. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a blender.
  2. Add ¼ cup water and blend until smooth. This is your smoky, spicy sauce base. Set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Use a spatula to break it into small crumbles as it cooks.
  2. Season the beef with salt and black pepper.
  3. Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving just enough to keep the beef moist.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Onion

  1. Add the diced potatoes and onion to the skillet with the beef. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften slightly and the onions to become translucent.

Step 5: Combine with the Sauce

  1. Pour the blended roasted sauce into the skillet. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
  2. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
    • Tip: The sauce will thicken and the potatoes will become tender as they absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

  1. Taste the Picadillo and adjust the salt or pepper as needed. For more heat, add another roasted pepper or some chili powder.
  2. Serve hot with warm tortillas, steamed rice, or use it as a filling for tacos or stuffed peppers.

Optional Additions for Traditional Flair

  • Raisins: Add a handful for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory beef.
  • Green peas: Stir in for color and added texture.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze Picadillo for up to 3 months for easy meal prep.

Notes and Tips

  1. Customize the Heat: Adjust the number of jalapeños and serrano peppers to suit your spice tolerance.
  2. Use Quality Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and texture.
  3. Experiment with Fillings: Picadillo is excellent in empanadas, gorditas, or even as a topping for nachos!

Final Thoughts

Authentic Mexican Picadillo is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich, smoky flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to serve for gatherings. Whether you enjoy it with a side of rice, wrap it in tortillas, or experiment with creative fillings, Picadillo is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Bring a taste of Mexico to your table and enjoy this timeless classic. ¡Buen provecho!

Let me know if you’d like to add any extra details or modifications!

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