Picadillo has its origins in Spain, but it has been adapted and modified over the years by Cuban cooks to suit local tastes and ingredients. Picadillo is a versatile dish that can be made with various ingredients depending on regional preferences and what’s available. The base typically consists of ground meat (often beef), onions, garlic, peppers, tomatoes, and spices, but additional ingredients such as olives, raisins, capers, slivered almonds or potatoes may be included to add depth of flavor.
Like many traditional dishes, picadillo is often associated with feelings of comfort and nostalgia. It’s a dish that many Cubans grew up eating, often prepared by their grandmothers or mothers.
We hope you enjoy this delicious Cuban dish as much as we do and that it connects you in a deeper way with our extended Cuban family. Learn how we’re helping children in Cuba at www.forwardedge.org/cuba.
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10 yrs. old
Entered the program: July 2025
Deborah lives with her parents and two younger brothers, Jeremias and Joel (also in the program). Their home is a three-room sheet metal structure on the side of a steep hill. Only one room is usable, however, since an earthquake damaged the other two. They have a makeshift kitchen and bathroom outside, and water service one day a week. The family sleeps all together, sharing two separate beds. The home is very unhygienic and the children are often sick.
Deborah’s mother abandoned the family when Deborah was 7 years old. For almost 3 years, she had to stay home and take care of her brothers while her father worked. Her mother returned to the family in early 2025 and is working as an elementary school cook. Deborah’s father works as a plumber and electrician.
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