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
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
- 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