Locro

Locro Recipe from Ecuador - Delicious Potato and Cheese Soup

Region / culture: Ecuador | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Locro is a traditional South American stew that originated in the Andean region. This hearty and comforting dish is typically made with potatoes, cheese, and a variety of other ingredients that vary depending on the region. Locro is a popular dish in countries such as Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia, where it is often enjoyed during the colder months.

History

The exact origins of Locro are unclear, but it is believed to have been influenced by the indigenous cultures of the Andean region. Potatoes, which are a key ingredient in Locro, have been cultivated in the Andes for thousands of years and are a staple food in the region. Over time, Locro has evolved to include ingredients such as cheese, onions, and paprika, creating a rich and flavorful stew.

Ingredients

4 tbsp (0.25 cup) of butter
1 tsp of sweet paprika
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 lb (1.81 kg) of potatoes, peeled and sliced
1 cup each of milk and light cream
0.5 lb (227 g) of munster cheese, grated
salt

How to prepare

In a large, heavy saucepan, heat the butter and stir in the paprika. Add the onion and sauté over moderate heat until the onion is softened.
Pour in 4 cups of water, bring to a boil, and add the potatoes. Simmer over low heat, uncovered, stirring occasionally.
When the potatoes are almost done, add the milk and cream. Continue to cook, stirring from time to time, until the potatoes begin to disintegrate.
Stir the cheese into the potatoes, season to taste with salt, and serve immediately. Avocado slices are sometimes served with the Locro, on separate plates but to be eaten at the same time.

Variations

Add cooked corn kernels or peas for extra texture and flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Add cooked bacon or chorizo for a smoky and savory flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a heavy saucepan when making Locro to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

- Stir the stew occasionally to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- Adjust the amount of cheese to suit your taste preferences - more cheese will result in a creamier and richer stew.

Serving Suggestions

Locro is traditionally served hot and can be garnished with avocado slices, chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs well with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the stew over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and the potatoes to soften.

- Stir the stew occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.

- Substitute olive oil for butter for a lighter version of the stew.

- Use lactose-free milk or dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve Locro in individual bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or chopped parsley for a pop of color. Add a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Locro pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy stew. A glass of white wine or a light beer complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Locro in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the stew in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Locro can contain around 300-400 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

Locro is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the potatoes and cream used in the recipe. One serving of Locro typically contains around 40-50 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The butter, cream, and cheese in Locro contribute to its fat content. One serving of Locro can contain around 20-30 grams of fat.

Proteins

Locro is not a high-protein dish, but the cheese and milk used in the recipe provide some protein. One serving of Locro typically contains around 10-15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins. Locro also contains calcium and vitamin D from the cheese and milk.

Alergens

Locro contains dairy (cheese and cream) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Locro is a hearty and comforting stew that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and some protein. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the potatoes, cheese, and milk used in the recipe.

Summary

Locro is a delicious and comforting stew that is perfect for cold weather. This traditional South American dish is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy a bowl of Locro with avocado slices and a side of crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Locro. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small village of San Antonio de Areco in Argentina. My grandmother, Maria, was known throughout the village for her delicious cooking and her vast knowledge of traditional recipes. She had learned many of these recipes from her own mother and grandmother, who had passed them down through the generations.

One day, my grandmother invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare a special dish for a family gathering. As we worked together, she began to tell me the story of Locro, a hearty stew that has been a staple in Argentine cuisine for centuries. She explained that Locro was originally a dish of the indigenous people of the Andes, who used corn, potatoes, and other local ingredients to create a warm and comforting meal that could sustain them through the harsh winters.

My grandmother had learned to make Locro from a friend who had grown up in the Andes region, and she had adapted the recipe over the years to suit her own tastes and preferences. As she guided me through the process of chopping vegetables, simmering the stew, and adding the final touches of herbs and spices, I could see the love and care that she put into every step.

As the stew bubbled away on the stove, filling the kitchen with a rich and savory aroma, my grandmother told me about the importance of tradition in cooking. She explained that each recipe carried with it a piece of history and culture, and that by preserving these recipes and passing them down to future generations, we could keep alive the stories and traditions of our ancestors.

When the Locro was finally ready, my grandmother ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of creamy avocado and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. As I took my first bite, I was transported back in time to the rugged mountains of the Andes, where the indigenous people had first created this nourishing and soul-warming dish.

From that day on, Locro became a staple in our family's kitchen. Whenever the weather turned cold or we needed a comforting meal to bring us together, my grandmother would whip up a pot of Locro and we would gather around the table to share stories and memories.

Over the years, I have continued to make Locro for my own family, passing down the recipe and the stories that accompany it to my children and grandchildren. Each time I prepare this dish, I am reminded of the sense of wonder and awe that I felt when I first saw the recipe all those years ago, and I am grateful for the tradition and connection that it brings to our family.

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, it is comforting to know that some things remain the same. The recipes and traditions that have been passed down through the generations are a link to our past, a way of honoring our ancestors and preserving the stories that make us who we are.

So as I stand in my kitchen today, stirring a pot of simmering Locro and thinking back on all the memories and moments that this dish has brought to my family, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasure of sharing a meal with the ones we love. And I know that as long as we continue to cook and share these traditional recipes, the stories and traditions of our ancestors will live on for generations to come.