Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa: Ground Beef with Potatoes Recipe A Flavorful and Comforting Latin Dish
In the realm of comforting and flavorful dishes, there’s a recipe that brings together the richness of ground beef and the heartiness of potatoes – Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa. This culinary creation is a celebration of flavors and textures, blending seasoned ground beef with tender potato cubes, all cooked to perfection in a savory tomato sauce. With every spoonful, you’re treated to a medley of tastes that honor the art of crafting a dish that’s both satisfying and irresistibly delicious.
As you embark on the journey to create your own Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa, imagine the aroma of sautéing ingredients filling your kitchen, the anticipation of a meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, and the joy of savoring a creation that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Visualize the smiles on the faces of those who will enjoy this dish, appreciating the combination of flavors and the delightful experience it brings. So, let’s dive into the world of culinary comfort and craft a dish that’s both hearty and perfect for embracing the flavors of ground beef and potatoes.
Ingredients:
A Collection of Ingredients for Your Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
A Fusion of Sautéed Goodness and Latin Flavors
1. Sautéing the Aromatics: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
2. Browning the Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Adding the Potatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes, ground cumin, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the potatoes to absorb some of the flavors.
4. Incorporating the Tomatoes: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth or water to the skillet. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmering to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded.
6. Adding the Peas: Stir in the frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing them to heat through.
7. Serving with Flavor: Ladle Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa into serving bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips and Variations:
Elevating Your Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa Experience
Tips:
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Variations:
- Sweet and Savory: Add a handful of raisins or chopped olives to the picadillo for a sweet and savory twist.
Pairing Suggestion: Serve Mom’s Picadillo Con Papa with a side of rice or warm tortillas for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage and Enjoyment: Store any leftover picadillo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Cook’s Note: This recipe captures the essence of family comfort in every bite. As you savor the seasoned ground beef, the tender potatoes, and the aromatic sauce, take a moment to appreciate the way these elements come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and delightful. This picadillo isn’t just about taste; it’s a celebration of culinary tradition that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and nourishing meal, perfect for sharing with loved ones and embracing the timeless joy of homemade comfort food.
