Healthy Mexican Picadillo

Healthy Mexican Picadillo is a lighter take on the traditional Mexican comfort dish, packed with lean ground meat, vibrant vegetables, and a savory tomato sauce. This nutritious version features heart-healthy ingredients like ground turkey or chicken, plenty of veggies, and spices that bring authentic flavors without the extra fat or calories. It’s a versatile dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for serving with rice, stuffing into tacos, or using as a filling for stuffed peppers. With its wholesome ingredients and delicious taste, this healthy picadillo is a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground turkey or chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the ground meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey or chicken and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the diced carrot and potato, cooking for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Simmer the picadillo: Return the cooked ground meat to the skillet. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
4. Add the peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Serve: Garnish the picadillo with fresh cilantro and serve with rice, in tortillas, or as a filling for stuffed peppers.

This Healthy Mexican Picadillo is a flavorful, balanced dish that offers the comforting flavors of traditional picadillo in a lighter, nutritious way.