Carne picada is a traditional Mexican dish that is incredibly easy to make and full of flavor. It is a simple, yet delicious combination of ground beef, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices. While it can be made in different ways, cooking carne picada on the stove is one of the quickest and most convenient methods.
To start, heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil to the pan and let it heat up for a minute. Then, add one diced onion and a couple of minced garlic cloves to the pan. Sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Once the onions and garlic are cooked, it’s time to add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the meat and stir it around, ensuring it cooks evenly. Season the beef with your preferred spices, such as cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, for extra flavor.
Continue cooking the beef until it is browned and cooked through, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan. Once the beef is fully cooked, you can either serve it as is or use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. It pairs perfectly with rice, beans, and a variety of toppings such as cheese, salsa, sour cream, and guacamole.
Carne picada is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is a great option for a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. So, the next time you’re craving Mexican cuisine, try cooking carne picada on the stove and enjoy the delicious flavors it has to offer.
Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and making it your own. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste preferences or add some diced bell peppers or tomatoes for additional texture and flavor. Don’t be afraid to get creative and enjoy the process of cooking this delicious Mexican dish!
About Carne Picada
Carne picada is a popular Hispanic dish that consists of thinly sliced or ground beef. It is commonly used as an ingredient in numerous Mexican and Latin American recipes, such as tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. The term “carne picada” translates to “chopped meat” in English, which accurately describes the preparation method for this dish.
Traditionally, carne picada is made by cutting beef into thin slices or cubes. However, in modern recipes, ground beef is often used as a convenient and readily available alternative. The beef is typically seasoned with a variety of spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder, to add flavor to the dish.
Carne picada is commonly cooked on the stove, making it a quick and easy option for a delicious meal. The beef is usually cooked in a skillet or frying pan over medium heat until it is browned and fully cooked. It can then be used as a filling for tacos, mixed with rice, or added to other dishes according to your preference.
One of the great things about carne picada is its versatility. You can customize the seasoning and add various vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, or tomatoes, to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. This allows you to create a unique and delicious meal that suits your taste.
In conclusion, carne picada is a versatile and flavorful dish that is widely used in Hispanic cuisine. Whether you prefer thinly sliced or ground beef, this dish can be easily prepared on the stove and used in a variety of recipes. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious flavors of carne picada!
Benefits of Cooking Carne Picada on Stove
When it comes to cooking carne picada, the stove is a versatile and convenient option. There are several benefits to cooking this type of dish on the stove:
1. | Controlled heat: The stove allows you to easily control the heat, which is essential for cooking carne picada. You can adjust the flame or burner to ensure that the meat cooks evenly and doesn’t burn. |
2. | Faster cooking time: Cooking carne picada on the stove can be much quicker than using the oven or grill. The direct heat from the stove helps to speed up the cooking process, allowing you to have a delicious meal ready in no time. |
3. | Versatility: The stove provides a versatile cooking surface that allows you to use different cooking techniques for carne picada. You can sear the meat to develop a tasty crust or simmer it in a flavorful sauce for a tender and juicy result. |
4. | Convenience: Cooking on the stove is convenient because it doesn’t require any additional equipment or preparation. You can simply heat up a pan, add the ingredients, and start cooking. |
5. | Easy clean-up: Cooking carne picada on the stove often involves using a single pan, which makes clean-up a breeze. You don’t have to deal with multiple dishes and utensils, saving you time and effort. |
Overall, cooking carne picada on the stove offers a range of benefits including controlled heat, faster cooking time, versatility, convenience, and easy clean-up. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and hassle-free meal.
Preparation
To begin preparing carne picada on the stove, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed.
Here is a list of the ingredients you will need:
- 1 pound of carne picada
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, follow these steps to prepare the carne picada:
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
- Next, add the diced bell pepper and tomato to the pan, and cook until they start to soften.
- Add the carne picada to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
- Sprinkle the ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the carne picada.
- Cook the carne picada until it is browned and cooked through.
- Check the seasoning and adjust if necessary.
Your carne picada is now ready to be used in your favorite recipes!
Choosing the Meat
When it comes to cooking carne picada on the stove, choosing the right type of meat is essential for a delicious and tender dish. Here are a few options to consider:
- Beef: Carne picada traditionally uses beef, such as flank steak or skirt steak. These cuts are known for their flavor and are typically more affordable than other cuts.
- Pork: If you prefer pork, you can use pork shoulder or pork loin. These cuts tend to be leaner and have a different flavor profile, but they can still work well in a carne picada.
- Chicken: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken breast or thigh meat. While this may not be traditional, it can still result in a tasty and healthier version of carne picada.
No matter what type of meat you choose, it’s important to trim any excess fat and slice it into thin strips against the grain. This will help ensure that the meat cooks evenly and stays tender.
Marinating the Meat
Marinating the meat is an important step in cooking carne picada on the stove. It helps to infuse the meat with flavor and tenderize it before cooking. Follow these steps to marinate the carne picada:
1. Prepare the Marinade
Start by preparing the marinade for the carne picada. In a mixing bowl, combine ingredients such as olive oil, vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.
2. Marinate the Meat
Place the carne picada in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure it is completely submerged. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight.
During this time, the meat will absorb the flavors of the marinade, making it more flavorful and tender.
Cooking Process
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook carne picada on the stove:
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients for carne picada, including:
- 1 pound of carne picada
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
2. Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the heated oil. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Brown the Carne Picada
Add the carne picada to the skillet and cook until browned. Use a spoon or spatula to break up any clumps of meat.
5. Add the Bell Pepper and Seasonings
Add the chopped bell pepper, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
6. Pour in the Diced Tomatoes
Open the can of diced tomatoes and pour it into the skillet with the other ingredients. Stir well to incorporate the tomatoes into the mixture.
7. Simmer and Cook
Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the carne picada is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once the carne picada is cooked, serve it hot with your choice of side dishes, such as rice, tortillas, or beans. Enjoy your homemade carne picada!
Q&A
What is carne picada?
Carne picada is a type of beef that has been coarsely ground or chopped. It is commonly used in Latin American cuisine and can be cooked in a variety of dishes.
How can I cook carne picada on the stove?
To cook carne picada on the stove, start by heating a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan and then add the carne picada. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. You can then use the cooked carne picada in your desired recipe.
Can I marinate carne picada before cooking?
Yes, marinating carne picada before cooking can add flavor to the meat. You can marinate it with a mixture of spices, herbs, and sauces of your choice. Simply place the carne picada in a bowl, add the marinade, and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. Make sure to drain any excess marinade before cooking.
What are some dishes I can make with cooked carne picada?
There are many dishes you can make with cooked carne picada. Some popular options include tacos, burritos, enchiladas, chili, and nachos. You can also use it as a topping for salads or as a filling for omelettes. The versatility of carne picada allows you to get creative with your recipes!
Can I freeze cooked carne picada?
Yes, you can freeze cooked carne picada for later use. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure to label the container with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a skillet or microwave.
What is carne picada?
Carne picada is a type of ground beef commonly used in Latin American cuisine. It is made by grinding beef and sometimes adding spices or seasonings.
How do I cook carne picada on the stove?
To cook carne picada on the stove, start by heating a pan or skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and then add the carne picada. Cook it, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula, until it is browned and cooked through.