Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana

Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana Recipe from Argentina

Region / culture: Argentina | Preparation time: 12 hours | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana is a traditional Colombian dish that features tender pork loin cooked in a creamy milk and lemon sauce. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner.

History

This recipe has its origins in the Cauca region of Colombia, where pork is a popular meat choice. The combination of milk and lemon juice tenderizes the pork and adds a unique flavor to the dish.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) boneless pork loin
5 cups whole milk
0.25 cup fresh lemon juice
1 onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, chopped
3 tbsp unsalted butter
salt, freshly ground pepper

How to prepare

Place the pork in a casserole or ovenproof baking dish that can comfortably hold it, and pour the mixed milk and lemon juice over it.
Cover with a cloth and let it sit overnight in a cool place. When ready to cook, remove the pork from the milk mixture and pat it dry with paper towels.
Season with salt and pepper. Heat the butter in a frying pan and lightly brown the pork on all sides. Return the pork to the dish with the milk mixture.
In the remaining butter in the pan, sauté the onion and garlic until the onion is soft. Add the contents of the frying pan to the baking dish, scraping up any drippings.
Bake the pork, uncovered, in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 2 hours or until the pork is tender.
Transfer the pork to a warmed serving platter and remove any string used for tying. Cover and keep it warm.
Skim any fat from the sauce. Reduce it over high heat until it reaches 1.5 cups, stirring occasionally. Taste for seasoning and add a little salt if needed.
The sauce will have a slightly grainy texture. Slice the pork and serve it hot with rice and a green vegetable. Serve the sauce separately. The pork also tastes good when served cold with salad.

Variations

Add herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the sauce for extra flavor.
Substitute chicken or beef for the pork for a different twist on this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to let the pork marinate in the milk and lemon juice mixture overnight for the best results.

- Browning the pork before baking helps to seal in the juices and adds a nice crust to the meat.

- Skim any fat from the sauce before reducing it to ensure a smooth and flavorful sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana with rice and a green vegetable for a complete meal. The creamy sauce pairs well with the pork and adds a delicious flavor to the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the pork before baking helps to seal in the juices and adds a nice crust to the meat. Make sure to cook the pork until it is tender and cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have whole milk, you can use low-fat milk or a combination of milk and cream for a richer sauce. You can also use chicken or beef broth instead of milk for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the pork in the milk and lemon juice mixture the night before to save time on the day of cooking. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the pork and arrange it on a platter with the sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The butter used in this recipe adds richness and flavor to the dish. Be mindful of portion sizes if you are watching your fat intake.

Proteins

Pork loin is a lean source of protein, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious option for a balanced meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Pork is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, zinc, and iron. The milk in the sauce adds calcium and vitamin D to the dish.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk) and butter, so it may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Overall, Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of protein, fats, and carbohydrates.

Summary

Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner. The tender pork loin cooked in a creamy milk and lemon sauce is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. I was visiting a friend in Colombia and she invited me over for dinner. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most incredible aroma. My friend explained to me that she was making Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana, a traditional Colombian dish that her grandmother had taught her how to make.

I watched in awe as she seasoned the pork tenderloin with a blend of vibrant spices and herbs. The smell was intoxicating and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the tender, juicy pork and I was instantly hooked. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever experienced before - rich, savory, and full of depth.

After that night, I begged my friend for the recipe. She graciously wrote it down for me, explaining each step in detail. I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. When I returned home, I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen.

As I followed the recipe, I couldn't help but think about my friend's grandmother. I imagined her standing in her own kitchen, passing down this recipe through generations. I could almost hear her voice guiding me through each step, urging me to add a little more salt or a pinch more of cumin.

When the dish was finally finished, I sat down to savor the flavors. It was as delicious as I remembered - tender pork infused with the warmth of the spices and herbs. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the wonderful memories I had shared with my friend.

Over the years, I have made Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana countless times. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. But the essence of the dish remains the same - a celebration of the flavors and traditions of Colombia.

I have shared this recipe with my own family and friends, passing down the knowledge that was given to me by my friend. Each time I make it, I am reminded of the powerful connection that food can create between people. It is a way to honor the past, to celebrate the present, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

As I sit here now, writing down this story, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into the cook that I am today. I may not have grown up in Colombia, but through this recipe, I have found a piece of that culture that will always hold a special place in my heart.

So, the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I urge you to give Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana a chance. Let the flavors transport you to a different time and place, and savor every bite as if it were a memory waiting to be made.