Picadillo — Savory ground beef hash with olives, raisins, and spices

Classic Cuban comfort food where ground beef simmers in a tomato sauce studded with briny green olives and sweet raisins, creating a uniquely addictive sweet-and-salty flavor. Quick to make and incredibly versatile — serve over rice, stuff into empanadas, or fill peppers.

Instructions

1. Make the sofrito: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet. Cook onion and bell pepper until softened, 5-7 minutes. Add garlic for 1 minute.
2. Brown the beef: Add 1½ lb ground beef, breaking it up. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Build the sauce: Stir in cumin, oregano, and bay leaf for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes, ¼ cup tomato paste, and ½ cup wine. Bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer with the sweet and salty: Cover and cook on low 20-30 minutes. Stir in olives and raisins. Simmer uncovered 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens. Remove bay leaf.
5. Serve: Adjust seasoning and serve over white rice.

Tips

• The olives and raisins are non-negotiable — they define picadillo's character
• Some versions add capers and diced potatoes; both are excellent additions
• Makes outstanding filling for empanadas or papas rellenas (stuffed potatoes)