Creating Mexican Picadillo is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and seasoned cooks. Follow these simple steps to prepare this flavorful dish:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Bell Pepper: Stir in the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle in the ground cumin and cinnamon, stirring well to coat the meat with the spices.
- Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add Broth: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add Potatoes: If using, add diced potatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Finish with Peas: Add the frozen peas to the skillet, stirring them into the mixture. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before removing the skillet from heat.
Following these steps will ensure you create an incredible batch of Mexican Picadillo that will bring your family together around the dinner table.