Description
Filipino Picadillo is a savory and hearty ground beef dish cooked with vegetables, raisins, and a flavorful blend of sauces. This traditional recipe features tender potatoes, carrots, and peas simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, making it a comforting meal served best with steamed rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
- 1/4 cup raisins
Sauces and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring even cooking.
- Add Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, incorporate the diced potatoes and carrots into the pan. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to start softening.
- Combine Sauces and Simmer: Add the peas, raisins, tomato sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and water or beef broth. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Until Tender: Cover the pan and let the mixture cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender and flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning and add more water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.
- Season: Taste and season the picadillo with salt, pepper, and paprika according to your preference.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the picadillo hot, garnished with chopped green onions. Pair it with steamed rice to complete the dish.
Notes
- Use beef broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
- Frozen peas can be used if fresh are unavailable; just ensure they are thawed before adding.
- Adjust the amount of soy and oyster sauce depending on your preferred saltiness.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or chopped chili peppers.
- This dish can be reheated and tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
