Picada

This mixture is used as a thickener. All of the ingredients except the olive oil can be puréed in a food processor until smooth. The olive oil is stirred in by hand at the end.

Picada can be used as a thickener for meat and fish stews and soups in much the same way as an aïoli is used to thicken bourride. To thicken fish soups and stews, it is best to whisk the hot cooking liquid into the picada in a bowl. To thicken meat stews, be sure to strain and thoroughly degrease the liquid b