Description

Turkey Picadillo is a light yet flavorful version of the classic Latin dish, made with lean ground turkey, olives, capers, and a blend of savory spices. This one-pan meal is easy to prepare and comes together in just one hour, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s hearty, aromatic, and satisfying. With its balance of tangy olives and sweet paprika, this dish is a delicious and healthy alternative to the traditional picadillo.

Ingredients

For the Picadillo:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 medium red onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)

1 small green pepper, cored, seeded, and finely chopped (about 3/4 cup)

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

2 teaspoons dried oregano

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon sweet paprika (not smoked)

2 bay leaves

2 teaspoons kosher salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 1/4 pounds ground turkey (see notes)

1 cup tomato sauce

1/4 cup water

1/2 cup pimento-stuffed Spanish olives plus 2 tablespoons brine

2 tablespoons capers (optional)

4 cilantro sprigs plus more for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan with a lid over medium-high heat. Add the onion and green pepper. Cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Spices: Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, oregano, cumin, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring often, for about 1 minute, until the tomato paste darkens.
Brown the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pan, breaking up the chunks as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
Simmer the Picadillo: Stir in the tomato sauce, and water. Bring to a low boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Olives and Capers: Uncover the pan, remove the bay leaves, and add the olives with brine, capers (if using), and cilantro sprigs. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the meat has absorbed most of the juices but remains saucy.
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired. Serve hot with white rice, brown rice, or a side of vegetables.

Notes

Ground Turkey Substitute: You can use chicken as alternatives to turkey, depending on your preference.
Olive Options: Feel free to use other olives like Kalamata or green olives, depending on your flavor preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: beef
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cuban