Authentic Cuban Picadillo with Rice (Easy Recipe)

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An Authentic Taste of Cuba: The Ultimate Cuban Picadillo with Rice

Transport your kitchen to the heart of Havana with a dish that embodies true Cuban comfort food. Cuban Picadillo with Rice is a beloved, traditional staple, celebrated for its unique and irresistible blend of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s an unexpectedly simple yet profoundly satisfying meal, perfect for any night of the week, especially when you crave something hearty and full of character.

Forget bland weeknight dinners; this authentic picadillo cubano recipe promises a vibrant culinary journey. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to create the most genuine Cuban Picadillo with Rice, complete with expert tips, delicious variations, and essential serving suggestions to elevate your experience. Get ready to discover your new favorite ground beef and rice recipe, the delightful Cuban Picadillo with Rice!

What Exactly is Cuban Picadillo?

The Heart of Cuban Home Cooking

Picadillo, derived from the Spanish word ‘picar’ meaning ‘to mince’ or ‘to chop,’ refers to a classic hash-style dish enjoyed across Latin America and the Philippines. While many countries boast their own versions, the Cuban iteration stands out for its distinctive flavor profile. It masterfully combines ground beef, tomatoes, green olives, capers, and a surprising touch of raisins, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and briny notes that define this traditional cuban ground beef dish. It’s the core of what makes this Cuban Picadillo with Rice so special.

A Dish Steeped in History

The roots of picadillo can be traced back to Spanish cuisine, evolving as it traveled across continents and adapted to local ingredients and palates. In Cuba, it became an indispensable part of daily life, a staple in Cuban households, and a true representation of the island’s rich culinary melting pot. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a taste of history and family tradition, making every plate of Cuban Picadillo with Rice a journey through time.

Cuban vs. Mexican Picadillo: What’s the Difference?

While both are beloved, there are clear distinctions between Cuban and Mexican picadillo. Authentic Cuban picadillo is primarily characterized by its signature sweet and briny elements—specifically, the inclusion of raisins and green olives. Mexican picadillo, conversely, often features a spicier kick, frequently includes diced potatoes and carrots, and typically omits the olives and raisins, resulting in a distinctly different taste and texture. Our recipe focuses on the classic, deeply flavorful Cuban style of Cuban Picadillo with Rice.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

A Symphony of Flavors: Prepare your palate for an irresistible sweet, savory, and briny taste combination that is truly unique and utterly addictive in this Cuban Picadillo with Rice.
Quick & Easy: This isn’t just an easy ground beef recipe; it’s a fantastic one-pan dinner recipe that comes together in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish that’s incredibly versatile and easily adaptable, even for the pickiest of eaters, making Cuban Picadillo with Rice a win for everyone.
Perfect for Meal Prep: The flavors of this delightful cuban comfort food only deepen overnight, making it ideal for satisfying leftovers and efficient make-ahead meals. You’ll love having meal prep picadillo ready to go!

The Key Ingredients for Authentic Picadillo

Creating the perfect Cuban Picadillo with Rice starts with understanding the role each ingredient plays in building that signature flavor.

For the Picadillo:

Ground Beef: Opt for 85/15 or 90/10 lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and texture. Alternatives like ground pork, ground turkey, or even a plant-based crumble can be used for variations on this traditional Cuban ground beef dish.
The Sofrito Base: This aromatic foundation is critical to many Cuban dishes. Sautéed onion, bell pepper, and garlic slowly develop a sweet, savory base that forms the soul of your picadillo. Learning this cuban sofrito recipe is a game-changer for many Latin American cuisine dishes, and it’s essential for a truly authentic Cuban Picadillo with Rice.
The Briny Trio: Green olives and capers are non-negotiable for that authentic salty, tangy, and savory punch. A little bit goes a long way in adding complexity to your picadillo.
The Sweet Surprise: Raisins are the secret ingredient that balances the acidity of the tomatoes and the saltiness of the olives, adding a subtle sweetness that makes Cuban picadillo truly unique. Don’t worry, the sweetness is delicate, not overpowering.
Tomatoes & Spices: Canned diced tomatoes offer convenience and a bright, acidic counterpoint. Essential Cuban spices like ground cumin and dried oregano infuse the dish with warmth and earthy depth, making your Cuban Picadillo with Rice sing.

For the Rice:

White Rice: Traditional long-grain white rice is the perfect choice. Its neutral flavor and fluffy texture create an ideal canvas to absorb all the rich, sweet and savory ground beef juices. It’s the classic companion for arroz con picadillo, completing the full experience of Cuban Picadillo with Rice.

How to Make Cuban Picadillo with Rice: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delicious Cuban Picadillo with Rice is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time!

Step 1: Craft the Perfect Sofrito

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté patiently for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, translucent, and fragrant. This step builds the crucial flavor foundation for your picadillo. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just an additional minute until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Increase the heat slightly and add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the beef apart into small crumbles. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is thoroughly browned and no pink remains, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This prevents your traditional cuban ground beef dish from becoming greasy and allows the other flavors to shine.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

Return the skillet to medium-low heat. Stir in the 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes, ¼ cup sliced green olives, ¼ cup raisins, 1 tablespoon capers, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 10-15 minutes. This crucial simmering time allows all the incredible flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and complex sauce that defines authentic Cuban Picadillo with Rice.

Step 4: Prepare the Fluffy White Rice

While your picadillo is simmering, prepare your white rice. Cook 2 cups of long-grain white rice according to package directions (typically 2 cups water to 1 cup rice). For best results, rinse the rice beforehand and let it simmer, covered, until all water is absorbed and the grains are tender and fluffy. Let it rest for a few minutes off the heat before fluffing with a fork.

Serve the rich, aromatic picadillo directly over a generous bed of your freshly cooked fluffy white rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness, completing your delectable Cuban Picadillo with Rice meal.

The Full Recipe: Cuban Picadillo

Here’s the complete recipe for your convenience, ensuring you can easily make this wonderful Cuban Picadillo with Rice:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1/4 cup green olives, sliced or chopped
1/4 cup raisins (golden or dark)
1 tablespoon capers, drained
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent, forming the base for your picadillo.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until thoroughly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), green olives, raisins, capers, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld, creating a truly authentic picadillo cubano recipe.
While the picadillo simmers, prepare 2 cups of fluffy white rice according to package instructions.
Serve the hot picadillo generously over a bed of cooked white rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, completing your delightful Cuban Picadillo with Rice.

Notes

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving (picadillo only, without rice)
For a richer flavor, add a splash of dry white wine after browning the beef and before adding the tomatoes to this traditional cuban ground beef dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Picadillo Cubano

Don’t Skip the Simmer: The 10-15 minute simmer isn’t just for cooking; it’s where the magic happens! This crucial step allows the complex flavors of the sweet and savory ground beef to fully develop and integrate, making your picadillo truly shine.
The Wine Trick: For an extra layer of depth, deglaze the pan with a splash (about 1/4 cup) of dry white wine or cooking sherry after browning the beef and draining the fat. Let it simmer briefly to cook off the alcohol before adding the other ingredients to your picadillo.
Balance is Key: Always taste and adjust your seasonings just before serving. The briny olives and capers, along with the sweet raisins, require careful balancing with salt and pepper to achieve perfection in your Cuban Picadillo with Rice. A touch more salt can sometimes highlight the sweetness.
Make it Ahead: This traditional cuban ground beef dish truly benefits from resting. Prepare your picadillo the day before, and gently reheat it; the flavors will be even more robust and harmonious, making it an excellent meal prep picadillo option!

Variations and Substitutions

While our recipe is for authentic Cuban Picadillo with Rice, feel free to customize it to your liking:

Add Potatoes & Carrots: For a heartier, more rustic version (closer to some other Latin American picadillos), dice one large potato and one carrot into small cubes. Add them to the skillet along with the tomatoes, ensuring they simmer long enough to become tender. This makes for a delicious picadillo with potatoes and carrots, offering a different take on this easy ground beef recipe.
Meat Swaps: Experiment with different ground meats. A 50/50 mix of ground beef and ground pork offers an incredibly rich flavor. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used for a lighter take, though the flavor profile will differ.
For Plant-Based Diets: Easily transform this into a vegetarian or vegan dish by substituting the ground beef with your favorite plant-based ground ‘meat’ crumble. Use vegetable broth instead of water if any is needed, and ensure your sofrito is cooked in plant-based oil, adapting this wonderful dish for everyone.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, finely dice half a jalapeño or serrano pepper and add it with the sofrito. Alternatively, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred in with the other spices will add a subtle warmth to your otherwise sweet and savory ground beef dish.

What to Serve with Cuban Picadillo

While serving Cuban Picadillo with Rice (or arroz con picadillo) is the quintessential pairing, here are other fantastic authentic serving suggestions to round out your meal:

Maduros (Fried Sweet Plantains): The ultimate sweet and savory pairing. Their caramelized sweetness offers a beautiful contrast to the picadillo’s rich flavors.
Tostones (Fried Green Plantains): For a savory, crispy, and slightly salty side, tostones are a perfect crunchy accompaniment to your picadillo.
Black Beans: A simple bowl of perfectly seasoned black beans is a classic side for nearly any Cuban meal, adding earthy depth and protein.
Avocado Salad: A fresh, simple salad of sliced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, and a squeeze of lime juice provides a light, creamy, and refreshing contrast.
Other Uses: Don’t let leftovers go to waste! Picadillo is incredibly versatile. Use it as a flavorful filling for empanadas, tacos, burritos, stuffed peppers, or even as a topping for baked potatoes. These leftover picadillo ideas make it great for lunch the next day, and a wonderful way to enjoy your Cuban Picadillo with Rice in new ways!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This easy ground beef recipe is fantastic for making ahead or enjoying as leftovers!

Refrigeration: Allow the Cuban Picadillo with Rice to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Picadillo freezes exceptionally well. Once cooled, store it in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This is why it’s a great meal prep picadillo.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does picadillo mean in English?

Picadillo comes from the Spanish verb ‘picar’, which means ‘to mince’ or ‘to chop’. The name directly refers to the ground or minced meat that is the primary ingredient of the dish, highlighting its preparation style and the essence of this traditional cuban ground beef dish.

Is Cuban picadillo supposed to be sweet?

Yes, the subtle sweetness is a defining characteristic and a hallmark of authentic Cuban picadillo. This sweetness primarily comes from the raisins, which expertly balance the salty olives, tangy capers, and acidic tomatoes, creating its signature sweet and savory ground beef profile that makes Cuban Picadillo with Rice so unique.

Can I make this picadillo recipe without raisins?

Absolutely! While raisins are traditional and contribute significantly to the unique Cuban flavor, if you’re not a fan, you can certainly omit them. The dish will still be incredibly flavorful, leaning more towards a savory and briny profile. Consider adding a pinch of sugar or a splash of orange juice if you want to retain a touch of sweetness without the raisins, making it a delicious picadillo recipe without raisins, though it won’t be quite the same Cuban Picadillo with Rice experience.

What is the best cut of beef for picadillo?

For the best balance of flavor and texture in your traditional cuban ground beef dish, ground chuck with an 85/15 fat ratio is highly recommended. This percentage provides enough fat for rich flavor without making the dish overly greasy, especially after draining any excess fat post-browning, ensuring a perfect foundation for your authentic picadillo.

Can I cook picadillo in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?

Yes, both methods work wonderfully for this easy ground beef recipe!

Instant Pot: Use the sauté function to prepare your sofrito and brown the ground beef. Once the remaining ingredients are added, cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
Slow Cooker: For the best flavor, we recommend browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables (sofrito) on the stovetop first. Then, combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the flavors have fully developed and melded, perfect for making a large batch of Cuban Picadillo with Rice.

Conclusion

From its humble origins to its place as a cherished family favorite, Cuban Picadillo with Rice offers a truly remarkable culinary experience. This authentic cuban picadillo delivers a masterful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, making it an unforgettable quick weeknight dinner and a comforting taste of Latin American cuisine. It’s an easy ground beef recipe that promises to impress with minimal effort.

We encourage you to bring the vibrant flavors of Cuba into your home. Try this ultimate picadillo cubano recipe tonight, and let us know what you think! Share your cooking experience in the comments below, or leave a rating – your feedback helps fellow food lovers discover this incredible dish of Cuban Picadillo with Rice!

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Cuban Picadillo With Rice