Picadillo a la Habanera

 Description:
Picadillo a la Habanera is one of the most traditional and comforting dishes in Cuban cuisine. It’s known for its rich, slightly sweet and savory flavor profile with a touch of spices that make it deeply satisfying.

Main Ingredients:

• Ground beef (preferably lean)

• Finely chopped white onion

• Green bell peppers

• Garlic

• Vegetable or olive oil

• Crushed tomatoes or tomato paste

• Dry white cooking wine

• Green olives (stuffed or pitted)

• Raisins (optional but traditional)

• Bay leaf

• Ground cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet and sauté the onion, garlic, and green pepper until softened.

2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.

3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes or tomato paste, dry wine, chopped olives, and raisins.

4. Season with cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and add the bay leaf. Let it simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined and the sauce has slightly thickened.

5. Serve hot, traditionally with white rice and fried ripe plantains.

Presentation:
This dish is typically served in generous portions, often over a bed of white rice or with complementary sides. Its vibrant reddish tones and green olive accents make it visually appealing and full of Cuban flavor.