Picadillo

Picadillo is a savory, hash-like dish made with ground meat (often beef), tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices and mix-ins like olives, raisins, capers, or potatoes. It is a staple comfort food with roots in Spanish and Latin American cuisines, with each region and family having its own beloved variation. The name comes from the Spanish word 'picar,' meaning to chop or mince, reflecting its finely diced ingredients.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is a balanced source of protein from the meat and often includes fiber and vitamins from vegetables like tomatoes and potatoes. A typical serving can range from 300 to 500 calories, with the exact count depending on the fat content of the meat and the amount of added oils or starchy sides like rice.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	280 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbs	12 g
Fat	16 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	680 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin A	450 IU
Calcium	40 mg
Vitamin B6	0.4 mg
Niacin (B3)	5 mg
Zinc	3 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, picadillo is a fascinating example of culinary evolution, with distinct versions found across the Philippines, Cuba, Mexico, and Spain, each adapting the base recipe to local tastes and ingredients. Nutritionally, the inclusion of ingredients like olives and capers adds a unique burst of umami and healthy fats, while raisins or fruit provide a subtle sweetness that balances the savory profile.