Let’s talk comfort food Filipino style. Filipino Picadillo is that nostalgic, heartwarming dish that instantly takes you back to childhood dinners and family gatherings. It’s cozy, it’s flavorful, and it smells like love simmering on the stove. Imagine ground beef gently stewed with tomatoes, potatoes, and carrots, seasoned with simple yet soulful spices, and kissed with a subtle sweetness from raisins. It’s sweet, savory, and a little tangy a total flavor bomb. Whether you serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or with a side of warm pandesal, trust me, this dish will win hearts at first bite.

Why You’ll Love Filipino Picadillo

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Serve it with rice, wrap it in lettuce, or spoon it into empanadas it works in so many delicious ways.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples and ground meat, it’s super affordable and easy to scale.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, perfect for weeknights or whenever you need a fuss-free meal.

Customizable: Add green peas, olives, or swap the beef for turkey or chicken make it your own!

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Filipino Picadillo

Here’s the beauty of this comforting stew it uses familiar ingredients that come together to create something deeply flavorful:

Ground Beef: The savory heart of the dish, giving it rich, meaty depth.

Onion and Garlic: Aromatic essentials that build a flavorful base.

Tomatoes or Tomato Sauce: Adds tang, sweetness, and that iconic red hue.

Potatoes and Carrots: Hearty veggies that soak up the sauce beautifully.

Raisins: A sweet little surprise that balances the savory flavors.

Bay Leaf: Adds an earthy, subtle fragrance as it simmers.

Soy Sauce and Fish Sauce: For umami richness and authentic Filipino flavor.

Salt and Pepper: Classic seasonings that tie everything together.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant — this step builds the flavor base.

Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking it apart with your spoon. Let it brown slightly for extra flavor.

Add Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly and the tomatoes break down.

Toss in Veggies and Seasoning: Add potatoes, carrots, soy sauce, fish sauce, and bay leaf. Mix well and pour in a splash of water or broth to help it simmer. Cover and cook until the veggies are tender.

Add the Raisins: Once the veggies are cooked, stir in the raisins. Let it simmer for another few minutes to let everything mingle and develop that signature sweet-savory balance.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. You can even add a dash of sugar or vinegar if you like a touch more sweetness or tang.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over steamed rice, or enjoy with warm bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 400

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Filipino Picadillo

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Spoon it generously over freshly steamed white rice.
• Serve with a side of fried plantains or sautéed greens for a colorful plate.
• Tuck it into lettuce cups for a low-carb twist.
• Use it as a savory filling for empanadas or meat pies.
• Enjoy leftovers the next day the flavors deepen overnight!

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Dice the potatoes and carrots evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• For a thicker stew, simmer uncovered to reduce the sauce.
• Want it spicier? Add a chopped chili or dash of hot sauce.
• Use lean beef if you prefer less grease, or blot excess oil after browning.
• Don’t skip the raisins they truly elevate the flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Yes! It’s just as delicious with lighter meats and still full of flavor.

2. Are raisins really necessary?
They add a signature sweet touch, but you can skip or reduce them if you prefer a more savory version.

3. Can I freeze Filipino Picadillo?
Absolutely. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when ready.

4. What kind of potatoes work best?
Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold hold their shape well, but any type will do.

5. Can I add green peas or olives?
Totally! They’re common additions and bring color and briny flavor.

6. Is tomato sauce better than fresh tomatoes?
Either works! Tomato sauce gives a richer taste; fresh tomatoes offer a fresher, chunkier texture.

7. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Use plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu, and skip the fish sauce.

8. What can I use instead of fish sauce?
Soy sauce or a splash of Worcestershire can be used as a substitute.

9. How do I know when the veggies are done?
They should be fork-tender but not mushy check after 15–20 minutes of simmering.

10. Can I make it in advance?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to develop.

Conclusion

Filipino Picadillo is a cozy, soulful dish that brings people together no fancy ingredients, no complicated steps, just good food made with heart. Whether you’re introducing someone to Filipino flavors or craving a taste of home, this recipe delivers every single time. So grab your favorite pan and let’s get cooking comfort is just a simmer away.

Print