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Green Chile Picadillo
Introduction
Green Chile Picadillo is a flavorful, comforting dish that captures the heart of Latin home cooking. Made with ground beef simmered in a rich blend of green chiles, tomatoes, potatoes, and spices, it’s both hearty and versatile — equally delicious wrapped in tortillas, served over rice, or enjoyed on its own. Its savory aroma and vibrant taste make it a beloved staple in many Hispanic households, blending tradition with everyday simplicity.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Picadillo, whose name comes from the Spanish word picar meaning “to mince,” originated in Spain and spread throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, where each region gave it its own unique touch. In Mexico and the American Southwest, the addition of green chiles transformed the dish into something distinctively regional — smoky, mildly spicy, and deeply satisfying. It’s a meal that represents cultural fusion, comfort, and family connection, often served during gatherings or passed down through generations as a family favorite.
Ingredients Quantity
- Ground beef – 1 pound (450 g)
- Green chiles (roasted and chopped) – 1 cup (about 2–3 medium chiles)
- Potatoes (peeled and diced) – 2 medium
- Onion (chopped) – 1 medium
- Garlic (minced) – 3 cloves
- Diced tomatoes – 1 cup (fresh or canned)
- Tomato sauce – ½ cup (120 ml)
- Cumin – 1 teaspoon
- Chili powder – ½ teaspoon
- Salt – 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Fresh cilantro – 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
Optional Additions
- Add green peas or carrots for extra texture and color
- Use ground turkey or pork as an alternative to beef
- Add a splash of lime juice for a fresh, tangy finish
- Include jalapeños or serrano peppers for extra heat
- Serve with a fried egg on top for a hearty meal
Tips for Success
- Roast your own chiles: Freshly roasted green chiles add unbeatable depth and smokiness.
- Dice potatoes evenly: This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Let it simmer slowly: Allowing the mixture to cook gently helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Adjust spice levels: Choose mild or hot chiles depending on your heat preference.
- Make it ahead: Green Chile Picadillo tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further.
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Stir in diced potatoes and cook for 5 minutes to slightly soften them.
- Add roasted green chiles, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the mixture thickens.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and remove from heat.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Description
Green Chile Picadillo is a comforting, rustic dish filled with bold Southwestern flavor. The savory beef melds with soft potatoes and smoky green chiles, creating a perfectly balanced medley of spice and warmth. It’s saucy enough to spoon into tacos or burritos, yet hearty enough to enjoy as a standalone meal. Each bite offers a taste of tradition — rich, homey, and full of depth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fat: 17 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugars: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
Conclusion
Green Chile Picadillo is a dish that brings people together, blending humble ingredients into something extraordinary. It’s a perfect example of how cultural traditions can be both simple and full of flavor. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or as part of a family gathering, it delivers warmth, nourishment, and a touch of heritage in every bite.
Recommendation
Serve your Green Chile Picadillo with warm flour or corn tortillas, Mexican rice, or refried beans. It’s also fantastic over baked potatoes or inside empanadas. For a lighter option, spoon it over a bed of lettuce or cauliflower rice for a flavorful, low-carb meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
You can enjoy this classic comfort dish while keeping it light by using lean ground beef or ground turkey and reducing the oil. Swap in sweet potatoes for added nutrients and natural sweetness, or load it with extra vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. With its wholesome ingredients and balanced flavors, Green Chile Picadillo is proof that indulgence and health can coexist beautifully on the same plate.
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