1. Prepare the Base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
3. Add Flavor: Stir in the diced tomatoes, green olives, capers, and raisins (if using). Season the mixture with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer: Add the water or beef broth to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the Picadillo simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the flavors are well blended.
5. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the Picadillo and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Keep it warm while you prepare the flour tortillas.

Homemade Flour Tortillas

Instructions:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add Fat: Work the lard or shortening into the flour mixture with your hands until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Incorporate Water: Gradually add the warm water, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 2 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and makes the dough easier to roll out.
5. Form Tortillas: Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten with a rolling pin into a thin circle about 6 inches in diameter.
6. Cook Tortillas: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side, or until the tortilla puffs up and gets some brown spots. Keep the cooked tortillas warm by wrapping them in a clean cloth while you cook the remaining tortillas.