Cocido

Cocido Recipe from Colombia - Delicious Garbanzo Beans and Pork Stew

Region / culture: Colombia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Cocido is a traditional Spanish stew that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. This dish is made with a variety of ingredients such as garbanzo beans, pork, sausage, and vegetables, all simmered together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Cocido has been a staple in Spanish cuisine for centuries, with each region having its own variation of the dish. It is believed to have originated in the Castile region of Spain and was traditionally made with ingredients that were readily available in the area. Over time, cocido has become a popular dish throughout Spain and is enjoyed by many families as a special meal.

Ingredients

2 cups garbanzo beans
3 tbsp olive oil
0.25 lb (113 g) bacon, diced
2 onions, diced (about 1.5 cups)
1 lb (454 g) pork, cut into 0.75 inch cubes
1 tbsp paprika
1 whole head of garlic
water
2 chorizos or other spicy dried sausage (about 0.5 lb (227 g)), sliced
1 morcilla or blood sausage, sliced, optional
0.5 lb (227 g) potatoes, peeled and diced
1 green pepper, seeded and chopped
salt

How to prepare

Soak garbanzo beans overnight in enough water to cover. The next day, drain and set aside.
Heat oil over medium heat in a heavy pan.
Add bacon, onions, pork, and paprika. Cook, stirring, for 10 minutes.
Add garbanzo beans, garlic head, and enough water to cover.
Increase heat to high and bring to a boil.
Cover and simmer for 1 hour.
When beans are soft but not tender, add chorizos and continue to cook for 1 hour longer.
Add morcilla, potatoes, green pepper, and salt to taste.
Cook for another 20 minutes.
Remove garlic head and serve cocido in soup bowls with crusty bread.
Accompany with sliced tomatoes dressed with olive oil and sherry vinegar.

Variations

Add chickpeas or other beans for added protein and fiber.
Use different types of sausage or meats for a unique flavor profile.
Add vegetables such as carrots, celery, or cabbage for extra nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the garbanzo beans overnight helps to soften them and reduce cooking time.

- Adding the garlic head whole infuses the stew with a subtle garlic flavor.

- Adjust the amount of salt to taste, as the bacon and sausages can add saltiness to the dish.

- Serve cocido with crusty bread and sliced tomatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve cocido in soup bowls with crusty bread and sliced tomatoes dressed with olive oil and sherry vinegar.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the stew slowly allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and flavorful broth.

- Cooking the ingredients in layers ensures that each component is cooked to perfection.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned garbanzo beans if you don't have time to soak them overnight.

- Substitute pork with chicken or beef for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Cocido can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve cocido in individual soup bowls garnished with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair cocido with a glass of Spanish red wine or a light and refreshing white wine for a perfect meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover cocido in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 400 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Cocido is rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

Contains: pork, sausage

Summary

Cocido is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Cocido is a delicious and comforting Spanish stew that is perfect for a hearty meal. With a rich and flavorful broth, tender meats, and hearty vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy cocido with crusty bread and a glass of wine for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Cocido. It was given to me by an old friend who had learned it from her grandmother many years ago. The thought of being able to recreate this traditional dish in my own kitchen filled me with a sense of pride and nostalgia.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories of my own grandmother flooded back to me. She was the one who first sparked my love for cooking and taught me the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients. I could still picture her standing in the kitchen, a smile on her face as she stirred pots and pans on the stove.

I knew that making Cocido would be a labor of love, but I was determined to master it. I gathered all the necessary ingredients – chickpeas, beef, chorizo, potatoes, carrots, and onions – and set to work in my kitchen.

The first step was to soak the chickpeas overnight. This would help them cook more quickly and evenly in the stew. The next morning, I drained and rinsed the chickpeas before placing them in a large pot with water to simmer.

While the chickpeas cooked, I prepared the meat and vegetables. I cut the beef into small pieces and browned it in a separate pan with some olive oil. In another pan, I sautéed the chorizo until it was crispy and flavorful. The aroma of the sizzling meat filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the meat was cooked, I added it to the pot with the chickpeas, along with the chopped onions, carrots, and potatoes. I seasoned the stew with a blend of spices – paprika, cumin, and bay leaves – before letting it simmer on the stove for hours.

As the Cocido cooked, the flavors melded together, creating a rich and hearty stew that reminded me of the meals my grandmother used to make. I could almost hear her voice guiding me through each step, her laughter filling the air.

Finally, after hours of simmering, the Cocido was ready. I ladled the steaming stew into bowls and garnished it with fresh parsley before serving it to my family.

The first bite brought a flood of memories rushing back to me. The tender beef, the creamy chickpeas, the smoky chorizo – each bite was a taste of my childhood, a reminder of the love and care that went into every meal my grandmother made.

My family eagerly devoured the Cocido, savoring each spoonful and asking for seconds. Their smiles and satisfied sighs filled me with happiness, knowing that I had successfully recreated a cherished recipe from my past.

As I sat at the table, surrounded by loved ones and the lingering aroma of the stew, I realized that cooking Cocido wasn't just about following a recipe – it was about preserving a tradition, honoring my heritage, and sharing a piece of my heart with those I care about.

And so, as I cleared the empty bowls and wiped down the kitchen counters, I knew that the recipe for Cocido would always hold a special place in my heart. It was more than just a dish – it was a connection to my past, a link to my grandmother, and a legacy to pass on to future generations.