Panamanian Bistec Picado Recipe

Panamanian Bistec Picado is a traditional Panamanian dish that consists of diced beef cooked in a tomato-based sauce. The dish is often served with white rice and beans and is a staple in many households and restaurants throughout Panama.

The history of Bistec Picado can be traced back to the early 20th century when Panama was still under the control of the United States. During this time, American influence on Panamanian cuisine led to the creation of new dishes that combined traditional Panamanian ingredients with American cooking techniques. Bistec Picado was one such dish, and it quickly became popular among both Panamanians and Americans living in Panama.

Today, Bistec Picado is a beloved dish in Panama, often served during special occasions such as family gatherings, celebrations, and holidays. It is also a popular lunchtime meal, especially in casual restaurants and eateries throughout the country.

The preparation of Bistec Picado involves dicing beef into small pieces and cooking it in a tomato-based sauce flavored with onions, garlic, and various spices. The dish is often garnished with diced bell peppers and served with white rice and beans, which help to balance the flavors and add texture to the dish.

Overall, Panamanian Bistec Picado is a delicious and satisfying dish that has become an important part of Panama’s culinary heritage. Whether enjoyed at home with family or in a local restaurant, Bistec Picado is sure to delight anyone who loves flavorful and hearty comfort food.

3 Reasons People Love Panamanian Bistec Picado

1. Flavorful Seasoning: Bistec Picado is a traditional Panamanian dish made with seasoned beef that is diced or minced into small pieces. The meat is typically marinated in a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, such as garlic, cumin, oregano, and onion, which gives it a delicious and savory taste.

2. Versatility: Bistec Picado is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It is often served with rice, beans, and plantains, but can also be paired with other side dishes or used as a filling for tacos or sandwiches. This versatility allows people to enjoy the dish in different ways and keep it interesting.

3. Cultural Connection: For many Panamanians, Bistec Picado is a dish that is deeply rooted in their culture and tradition. It is often served at family gatherings, special occasions, and celebrations, making it a dish that is associated with happy memories and a sense of community. As a result, many people love Bistec Picado not only for its taste but also for the cultural connection it provides.

How To Make Our Panamanian Bistec Picado Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 8):

2 pounds of beef, cut into small pieces
1 large onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon of tomato paste
1 teaspoon of cumin
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup of water
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

2. Add the onions and peppers and sauté until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add the beef and cook until it starts to brown, about 5-6 minutes.

5. Add the Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

6. Add the water, cover the skillet, and let the meat simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s tender and cooked through.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice, beans, or fried plantains.

Nutritional Values for One Serving of Panamanian Bistec Picado:

Calories: 297
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 195mg
Potassium: 620mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 25 minutes

List of Pots, Pans and Cooking Equipment:

To make Panamanian Bistec Picado, you will need the following pots, pans, and cooking equipment:

A large skillet or wok

A sharp knife for cutting the beef and vegetables

A cutting board

Measuring spoons and cups

A wooden spoon for stirring the meat and vegetables

A lid to cover the skillet when simmering the meat

Best way to Store Panamanian Bistec Picado:

If you have leftovers of Panamanian Bistec Picado, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the meat in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the meat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Possible Substitutions for Ingredients for Panamanian Bistec Picado:

Beef: You can use chicken, pork, or even tofu as a vegetarian option.

Worcestershire sauce: Use soy sauce instead.

Tomato paste: Use tomato sauce or diced tomatoes instead.

Bell peppers: Use any other color of bell pepper or substitute with poblano or Anaheim peppers.

Cumin: Use chili powder instead.

Paprika: Use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Ingredients to Substitute for a Vegetarian version of Panamanian Bistec Picado:

To make a vegetarian version of Panamanian Bistec Picado, substitute the beef with tofu or seitan. Follow the same recipe but cook the tofu or seitan until browned before adding the vegetables and spices.

You can also add mushrooms or eggplant for additional texture and flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Easier Creations of the Recipe

Cut the beef into small pieces to ensure even cooking and tender meat.

Use a sharp knife to cut the vegetables, which will make the prep process quicker and easier.

Sauté the onions and peppers before adding the meat to develop more flavor in the dish.

Cover the skillet when simmering the meat to keep it moist and tender.

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.

Possible Side Dishes and Desserts to serve with Panamanian Bistec Picado

Panamanian Bistec Picado is often served with white rice, black beans, or fried plantains.

You can also add a side salad or steamed vegetables for additional nutrients.

For dessert, try a traditional Panamanian dessert such as tres leches cake, flan, or arroz con leche.

How to Serve .Panamanian Bistec Picado

To serve Panamanian Bistec Picado, ladle the meat onto a plate or bowl and sprinkle with chopped cilantro. Serve hot with white rice, black beans, or fried plantains on the side.

FAQs About Panamanian Bistec Picado

1. What is Bistec Picado?
Bistec Picado is a popular Panamanian dish made with beef, onions, peppers, and a variety of spices. The beef is cut into small pieces and cooked with the vegetables until tender and flavorful.

2. What kind of beef should I use for Bistec Picado?
You can use any type of beef for Bistec Picado, but it’s best to use a tender cut such as sirloin or flank steak. Cut the beef into small pieces for even cooking.

3. Can I make Bistec Picado in advance?
Yes, you can make Bistec Picado in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the meat in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

4. How spicy is Bistec Picado?
The level of spiciness in Bistec Picado can vary depending on the amount of spices used. The recipe typically includes cumin, paprika, and black pepper, which add a mild heat. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more spices or use a hotter variety of peppers.

5. Can I make a vegetarian version of Bistec Picado?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Bistec Picado by substituting the beef with tofu or seitan. Follow the same recipe but cook the tofu or seitan until browned before adding the vegetables and spices. You can also add mushrooms or eggplant for additional texture and flavor.

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