If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with vibrant flavors, this Filipino Picadillo Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a beautiful medley of savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and a touch of sweetness from raisins, all simmered in a luscious tomato-soy sauce blend. This hearty, homey dish brings warmth to any table and is a perfect way to experience Filipino cuisine’s rich, diverse flavors in one delicious skillet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Filipino Picadillo Recipe is a breeze because it relies on simple, everyday ingredients that pack a punch individually and come together harmoniously. Each element plays a special role, whether it’s adding texture, balancing flavors, or bringing vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For sautéing and ensuring a golden start to the dish.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers aromatic warmth that flavors the entire dish.
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced: Provides tender texture and helps make the dish more filling.
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced: Brings subtle sweetness and bright color.
- 1/2 cup peas (frozen or fresh): Adds pops of green and a slightly sweet bite.
- 1/4 cup raisins: Introduces delightful bursts of natural sweetness.
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce: Creates a rich, tangy base that ties all ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Infuses savory umami depth.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a luxurious, slightly sweet oceanic flavor.
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth: Keeps everything moist and helps develop a luscious sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Offers a gentle smoky warmth.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
How to Make Filipino Picadillo Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
The magic begins by heating vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them soften and release their fragrance for about 3-4 minutes. This foundational step creates the warm, inviting aroma that sets the tone for the entire dish.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to your sizzling pan. Break the meat up with a spatula and let it brown thoroughly. This not only locks in flavor but also builds the meaty, juicy base critical to this Filipino Picadillo Recipe. The browned bits on the pan will add delicious depth to the sauce later.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Carrots
Once your beef is perfectly browned, throw in the diced potatoes and carrots. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes. This allows the vegetables to begin softening while they soak up the savory goodness developing in the pan.
Step 4: Stir in Peas, Raisins, and Sauces
Now it’s time to add the peas and sweet raisins, followed by the tomato sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and water or beef broth. Mix thoroughly, bringing all those flavors together in a simmering pot that smells absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Cover the pan and let your picadillo simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. The potatoes and carrots should be tender, and the flavors fully melded. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and feel free to add a splash more water or broth if it looks too dry.
Step 6: Season and Adjust
Finish off with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. This final seasoning round brings a subtle warmth and balances the heartiness with just the right kick.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve your Filipino Picadillo Recipe hot, topped with a sprinkle of fresh green onions. Don’t forget to have steamed rice on the side to fully enjoy every bit of this comforting dish!
How to Serve Filipino Picadillo Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped green onions aren’t just for a pop of color; they add a subtle sharpness that perfectly complements the savory-sweet flavors of the picadillo. Feel free to add a dash of toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro for other exciting flavor twists.
Side Dishes
The classic way to enjoy Filipino Picadillo Recipe is with fluffy steamed white rice, which soaks up every bit of that delicious sauce. For a vegetable side, try sautéed greens like spinach or kangkong, or even a fresh tomato and cucumber salad to balance the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Use Filipino Picadillo as a filling for tacos or stuffed bell peppers for a delightful fusion twist. You can even turn it into a hearty empanada filling or top off a baked potato to transform this classic dish into something entirely new.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Filipino Picadillo Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for those busy weeknights.
Freezing
This dish freezes exceptionally well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its signature flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your picadillo over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving for long stretches to maintain the best texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use ground pork instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground pork is a great substitute and will give your Filipino Picadillo Recipe a slightly different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Is it necessary to add raisins?
While raisins bring a lovely sweetness that balances the savory ingredients, you can omit them if you prefer a less sweet dish or substitute with chopped dried apricots.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap ground beef with finely chopped mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a tasty vegetarian version of Filipino Picadillo Recipe.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
You can substitute oyster sauce with hoisin sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a touch of honey for sweetness to keep the rich umami flavors.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and comforting with a gentle warmth from paprika. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding chili flakes or sliced fresh chili when sautéing the garlic and onions.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish like this Filipino Picadillo Recipe. It’s warm, inviting, and full of flavors that feel like a comforting hug after a long day. Whether you’re new to Filipino cooking or a longtime fan, this recipe is a fantastic way to bring a little bit of Filipino heart into your kitchen. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a favorite in your meal rotation!
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Filipino Picadillo Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Filipino Picadillo is a hearty and flavorful ground beef stew cooked with potatoes, carrots, peas, and a blend of savory sauces. This classic Filipino comfort dish combines sweet and savory flavors with a touch of warmth from paprika, making it perfect for a family meal served alongside steamed rice.
Ingredients
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
- 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
- Heat and Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes, to release their flavors and create a savory base for the dish.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula as it cooks. This ensures even cooking and a crumbly texture that absorbs the sauce well.
- Add Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, add the diced potatoes and carrots to the pan. Stir to combine, and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening and blending with the beef flavors.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add the peas, raisins, tomato sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and water or beef broth to the pan. Stir everything to combine well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, starting to meld all the tastes together.
- Simmer: Cover the pan and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender and the flavors are harmonized. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and add more water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.
- Season: Season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste, balancing the savory and slightly sweet flavor profile.
- Serve: Serve the picadillo hot, garnished with chopped green onions, alongside steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground pork or a mix of both for a variation in flavor.
- Adding raisins gives a subtle sweetness that balances the savory ingredients; adjust quantity to your taste.
- Use beef broth instead of water for a deeper flavor.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or fresh chopped chili.
- This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
