Cuban Creole Picadillo: With Authentic Antillean Flavor

 

Creole Picadillo: Authentically Cuban Flavor

Creole picadillo is one of those recipes that bring back family memories and everyday celebrations. This traditional dish faithfully reflects the soul and exquisite flavor of Cuban cuisine. Learn how to prepare it step by step and surprise everyone with something truly special.

🥩 Main Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ pounds of good-quality ground beef
  • 1 medium white onion
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • ½ red bell pepper
  • ½ green bell pepper
  • 2 medium potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons of finely chopped roasted red peppers (pimientos morrones)
  • ¾ cup of small green olives
  • 1 cup of golden raisins
  • 1 tablespoon of capers
  • 2 bay leaves

🍅 For the Sofrito:

  • ½ cup of tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of ketchup
  • ¼ teaspoon of cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon of oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon of sweet paprika
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • ½ cup of white wine or dry cooking wine
  • Ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Vegetable oil for frying

 

 

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation:

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet. Finely chop the onion and add it to cook slowly until it softens.

Add the chopped peppers and mix well. Then add salt, bay leaves, cumin, and oregano, and sauté for a few minutes.

Crush the garlic cloves in a mortar with a pinch of salt and add them to the pan. Cook for 2 more minutes so the flavors blend together.

Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef, stirring until it browns and loses its reddish color. Then, add the roasted red peppers, capers, and olives.

Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, and wine. Let the alcohol evaporate and allow all ingredients to blend well. Add black pepper to taste, cover the skillet, and let it cook slowly.

🥔 Final Step:

Peel and cut the potatoes into small cubes. Fry them in plenty of oil until golden.

Add the raisins to the picadillo, cover, and cook for 1 minute. Finally, mix in the fried potatoes, cover again, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

ℹ️ Additional Information:

  • Servings: 6 portions
  • Total time: 45 minutes (preparation) + 15 minutes (final cooking) + 5 (resting)
  • Category: Meats
  • Cuisine: Cuban

💡 Tip:

This picadillo goes perfectly with white rice, malanga fritters, and a fresh avocado salad. A perfect meal for any occasion!

Are you ready to try this recipe? Share in the comments how you make it, what you add, or what memories it brings back when you eat it. We’d love to hear from you!

🏷️ Tags: creole picadillo, Cuban recipes, ground beef, traditional cooking, Cuban dishes, Cuban Creole food, picadillo with potatoes, authentic Cuban flavor

For the Spanish recipe, visit: Picadillo a la Criolla: Una Mezcla Perfecta de Sabor y Tradición Cubana.