Description
Filipino Picadillo is a savory and hearty ground beef stew packed with tender potatoes, carrots, peas, and sweet raisins in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This classic Filipino dish is a comforting, well-balanced meal that combines salty, sweet, and umami flavors, perfect served over steamed rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 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)
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
Additional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 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 finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan and cook it until browned thoroughly, breaking it into small pieces using a spatula to ensure even cooking.
- Add Root Vegetables: Stir in the diced potatoes and carrots, mixing well with the beef. Cook together for 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to start softening.
- Add Remaining Ingredients and Simmer: Pour in the peas, raisins, tomato sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and water or beef broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Covered Until Tender: Cover the pan and let the picadillo cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender and the flavors meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, adding more liquid if necessary.
- Season: Adjust the seasoning by adding salt, pepper, and paprika to taste, ensuring a balanced flavor.
- Serve: Garnish the finished dish with chopped green onions and serve hot, ideally 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 different flavor.
- Adjust the amount of soy and oyster sauce depending on desired saltiness and umami intensity.
- Adding raisins provides a subtle sweetness typical in Filipino-style picadillo.
- To make it spicier, add sliced chili peppers while sautéing the onions.
- Use fresh or frozen peas based on availability; if frozen, add directly without thawing.
- Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days refrigerated and reheat nicely.
