Cuisine : Locro - How to make this Argentine stew

 

Locro is a hearty and flavorful Argentine stew, typically made with corn, beans, potatoes, and meat. Here's a detailed guide to prepare Locro:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup dried hominy corn (or large kernel corn)

- 1 cup white beans, soaked overnight

- 1 pound pork belly or bacon, diced

- 1 pound pork sausage, sliced

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced

- 1 butternut squash, peeled and diced

- 1 tablespoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- 4 cups water

- 1 bunch green onions, chopped (for garnish)

- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. **Prepare Hominy and Beans:**

   - Rinse the dried hominy corn and white beans.

   - In a large pot, combine hominy, white beans, and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until both are tender. Drain and set aside.

2. **Cook Pork Belly and Sausage:**

   - In the same pot, cook diced pork belly or bacon until browned and crispy.

   - Add sliced pork sausage and cook until browned. Remove excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pot.

3. **Sauté Onions and Garlic:**

   - Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until translucent.

   - Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

4. **Add Potatoes and Butternut Squash:**

   - Add diced potatoes and butternut squash to the pot. Stir to combine.

5. **Season the Stew:**

   - Sprinkle paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Mix well to coat.

6. **Pour in Broth and Water:**

   - Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.

7. **Simmer the Stew:**

   - Reduce the heat to low and simmer the stew, partially covered, for about 30-40 minutes or until the potatoes and squash are tender.

8. **Add Cooked Hominy and Beans:**

   - Add the cooked hominy and beans to the pot. Stir and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.

9. **Adjust Seasoning:**

   - Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

10. **Serve:**

    - Ladle the Locro into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.

Locro is often served with aji (a spicy pepper sauce) on the side. It's a comforting and hearty stew, perfect for cold weather or whenever you crave a satisfying meal.