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Bowl of Easy Beef Picadillo with Cuban spices, olives, and rice.

Cuban Spiced Ground Beef

A cozy and flavorful Cuban dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, olives, and raisins, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cuban
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Ground beef (lean) Any ground beef works.
  • 1 medium Onion, diced
  • 1 medium Bell pepper, diced Green is classic, but use any color.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Tomato sauce Can substitute with crushed tomatoes.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste Optional for deeper flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Green olives, sliced or chopped Start with a small amount if unsure.
  • 1/4 cup Raisins Optional but traditional.
  • 1 tsp Ground cumin
  • 1 tsp Oregano Dried is fine.
  • 1 leaf Bay leaf Optional.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Vinegar or lime juice Add to brighten flavors.
  • 2 tbsp Oil For sautéing.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 4 to 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
  4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until no longer pink.
  5. Drain excess grease if necessary, but leave some for flavor.
  6. Mix in cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  7. Add tomato sauce (and tomato paste if using) and stir to combine.
  8. Stir in the olives, raisins, and bay leaf, then lower heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until slightly saucy.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning; add a splash of vinegar or lime juice before serving.

Notes

This dish tastes even better the next day. Serve with rice, beans, or on its own for a comforting meal. Great for meal prepping.