What is Carne Picada?
Carne picada is a Spanish term for chopped or minced meat. It is a popular dish in Latin American cuisine, particularly in Mexico, where it is often used as a filling for tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. Carne picada is typically made with beef, but can also be made with chicken, pork, or a combination of meats.
Carne picada is a versatile dish that can be seasoned in many ways, making it a popular choice for large gatherings and parties. It’s easy to make, affordable, and can be prepared in advance, making it the perfect dish for busy hosts.
If you’re looking for a savory and delicious carne picada recipe that is sure to please a crowd, look no further than the recipe below.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
To make carne picada, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs. beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. chili powder
- 1 tsp. paprika
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
You’ll also need a large skillet or wok, and a sharp knife for slicing the beef.
Preparing the Meat for Cooking
To prepare the meat for cooking, start by thinly slicing the beef sirloin against the grain. This will make the meat more tender and easier to cook.
Next, heat 2 tbsp. of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the sliced beef in batches and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Cooking the Carne Picada
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 2 tbsp. of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
Add the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
Adding the Savory Flavor
Add the tomato paste and beef broth to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Add the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the beef is heated through.
Pairing Suggestions for Carne Picada
Carne picada is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of foods. Some popular pairing suggestions include:
- Flour or corn tortillas for making tacos or burritos
- Rice or quinoa for a hearty side dish
- Roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini
- Guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for topping tacos and burritos
- A crisp salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado
Making the Dish a Crowd-Pleaser
To make this dish a crowd-pleaser, consider serving it with a make-your-own taco bar. Set out bowls of tortillas, rice, beans, and toppings such as guacamole, salsa, and sour cream, and let your guests assemble their own tacos.
You can also make this dish in advance and reheat it just before serving, making it the perfect dish for a party or gathering.
Tips for Serving Carne Picada
When serving carne picada, be sure to have plenty of napkins on hand. The sauce can be a bit messy, so it’s best to use a fork and knife or eat the tacos over a plate.
If you’re serving this dish as part of a make-your-own taco bar, be sure to label the toppings so your guests know what they’re adding to their tacos.
A Delicious Twist on Traditional Tacos
This recipe is a delicious twist on traditional tacos. The savory sauce adds a depth of flavor to the beef that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
If you don’t have tortillas on hand, you can also serve this dish over rice or quinoa for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons why you’ll love this recipe. It’s easy to make, affordable, and can be prepared in advance. It’s also a crowd-pleaser that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
The savory sauce adds a depth of flavor to the beef that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. And, with a make-your-own taco bar, you can customize the dish to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use chicken, pork, or a combination of meats for this recipe.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this dish in advance and reheat it just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
Conclusion: Ready to Make Carne Picada?
Carne picada is a delicious and versatile dish that is sure to please a crowd. With a savory and flavorful sauce, this dish is perfect for tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. And, with a make-your-own taco bar, you can customize the dish to your liking.
So, gather your ingredients and get cooking! You’re sure to love this delicious and easy-to-make recipe.
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