Three Kings Day or Epiphany, celebrated by Roman Catholics on January 6, is the culmination of the 12 days of Christmas. It’s known as the day the three wise men saw baby Jesus and brought him gifts of frankincense, gold, and myrrh. To get into the spirit of the jolly Three Kings Day this year, here is a recipe for Picadillo, the perfect savory component to brighten the day and remember the holiday’s roots.
What is Picadillo?
This traditional Latin American dish is sort of like a ground beef stew that uses an interesting mix of tomatoes, onions, garlic, olives, and raisins. The addition of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and oregano push sweet and savory flavors together. Picadillo really versatile too since you can serve it with chips, inside tacos, or with a side of rice. Its connection to Three Kings Day comes as a comfort food, allowing each cultural to inject their own special ingredients inside.
Picadillo
Description
A mixture of ground beef, onions, tomatoes, raisins, almonds, and plenty of other veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed, and minced
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 2 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1 green apple, chopped
- 14 oz diced tomatoes canned
- 1 jalapeño, chopped
- 1/2 cup golden raisins
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup green olives
- 1/4 fresh cilantro
Instructions
- In a large sauté pan or Dutch kettle, heat oil until hot.
- Add in garlic, stirring until it starts to brown.
- Add chopped onion and peppers, stirring until they also begin to brown.
- Add in ground beef, breaking up with a spatula or spoon. Stir constantly to cook evenly.
- When meat is fully cooked, add spices, then remaining ingredients.
- Bring to a low simmer for five minutes. Serve with tortilla chips.
Recipe by Chef Kate Kobylinski, Bistro to Go Café & Catering
Photography by Laura Petrilla
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