Homemade Picadillo with Flour tortillas

Introduction

Mexican Picadillo is a simple yet hearty dish that blends bold flavors with minimal ingredients. This quick and easy dinner brings together ground beef, potatoes, and spices in a tomato-based sauce. Paired with warm flour tortillas, it’s a meal that is not only satisfying but also rich in tradition.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Picadillo has deep roots in Latin American cuisine, with regional variations throughout Mexico, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. In Mexico, Picadillo is a humble yet flavorful dish often served in households for family dinners. Its blend of savory beef, earthy potatoes, and tomatoes reflects the essence of Mexican home cooking, while the accompanying tortillas add the warmth and tradition of handmade bread.

Ingredients Quantity

For Picadillo:

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
• 1 to 2 lbs ground beef
• 3 potatoes, cubed
• 1 can green beans (optional)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tomatoes, diced
• 2 Serrano chilies, chopped
• 1 tsp kosher salt (add more if needed)
• 1 tsp garlic salt
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp oregano (rubbed between palms)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 3 tsp paprika
• Pepper to taste

For Flour Tortillas:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup vegetable shortening
• 3/4 cup warm water

Optional Additions

For added flavor and variety, you can include:

• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• A squeeze of lime for brightness
• A spoonful of sour cream or guacamole on the side
• Jalapeño or bell peppers for extra texture and heat

Tips for Success

1. Perfect Potatoes: Brown the potatoes before adding them to the beef mixture for extra crispness.
2. Spice to Taste: Serrano chilies are quite spicy. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance.
3. Rest the Dough: Let the tortilla dough rest for at least one hour for optimal softness and pliability.
4. Flour Tortilla Tip: Roll out your tortilla dough thinly to achieve soft, flexible tortillas.

Instructions

For Picadillo:

1. Heat the EVOO in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until browned and tender. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the ground beef, garlic, and onions. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and chopped Serrano chilies, along with the cumin, oregano, garlic salt, paprika, chili powder, and kosher salt.
5. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, then add the browned potatoes. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the flavors are fully combined.
6. Serve the Picadillo hot with freshly made flour tortillas.

For Flour Tortillas:

1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the vegetable shortening and work it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
3. Slowly add the warm water, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Let the dough rest inside a Ziploc bag for at least 1 hour.
5. After resting, divide the dough into small balls and roll them out on a floured surface into thin circles.
6. Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and cook each tortilla for 30 seconds on each side, flipping when bubbles form.
7. Serve warm with the Picadillo.

Description

This Mexican Picadillo is a savory blend of ground beef, tender potatoes, and rich tomatoes. The addition of Serrano chilies adds a punch of heat, while cumin and oregano give the dish its signature depth of flavor. Pairing it with homemade flour tortillas creates a balanced, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (with tortillas):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 550mg

Conclusion and Recommendation

Mexican Picadillo with flour tortillas is a timeless dish that brings comfort to the table. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Serve it with a side of rice or refried beans for a more complete meal. You can also experiment with different spices and vegetables to suit your preferences.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Although Picadillo can be rich, it’s easy to make this dish healthier by opting for lean ground beef or substituting it with ground turkey. Using fresh vegetables like green beans and tomatoes adds a boost of nutrients, while the homemade flour tortillas give a wholesome touch to the meal. Enjoy this dish with moderation and a sense of indulgence!