Mexican Beef and Pea Picadillo is near and dear to my heart. My mom would serve this to my sisters and I almost as much as rice and beans. “Picadillo” means “hash.” Many picadillos—which are peasant dishes—are also referred to as “poor man’s food” which is such a misnomer as this tastes anything but poor, not to mention that beef is not the cheapest type of meat. In my mom’s picadillo, ground beef is simmered in onions, garlic, and tomato sauce to form a beefy gravy-stew, which is then topped with peas.
Basic Ingredients for Mexican Beef and Pea Picadillo
- Ground beef
- Peas
- Onions
- Tomato sauce
- Spices
I add a little spice to my Mexican Beef and Pea Picadillo by adding a little taco seasoning or chili powder to give it some spicy kick. You don’t need it, but my taste buds are decidedly older than when my mom use to make it, so I like the extra flavor.
This dish is simple, but so hearty and delicious!
I’m not the only one who thinks so. My sister, Vicki, makes it for her son. It’s his favorite dish.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy with some homemade tortillas.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cups frozen peas
Instructions
- Over medium heat, add olive oil to skillet and brown onions until they are translucent and just starting to turn golden. Add garlic and brown for a minute more.
- Remove from skillet and reserve on a plate.
- Brown the ground beef in the remaining oil on the pan. Add salt and pepper. Drain when finished.
- Return the onion and garlic to the pan.
- Add tomato sauce, chili powder and dried oregano. Mix together.
- Add the frozen peas and cook about 5 minutes.
- Serve with tortillas.
Hey Teresa, Jeff sent me your link. Haven’t tried any of the recipes yet, but love the photographs. Magazine quality for sure.
Thank you! Since you are a “hatch” fan, you might want to check out the Hatch Chile Verde. It was really good (if I do say so myself!) 🙂