Locro
Few miscellaneous recipes are as satisfying as a well-made Locro. The star here is dried white corn, supported by a short list of everyday ingredients. Low and slow is the secret — the longer simmer lets dried white corn soften and the flavours deepen. Read through the tips before you start — a couple of small details go a long way with this one.
- Level Medium
Ingredients
- 500 g Dried white corn
- 200 g Dried white beans
- 300 g Pumpkin
- 200 g Potatoes
- 300 g Ground Beef
- 200 g Ground Pork
- 1 Chorizo
- 1 Chopped Onion
- 1 tsp Paprika
- Salt
- To taste Pepper
Method
- Soak: Soak corn and beans overnight in water.
- Cook Meats: In a large pot, brown the beef and pork. Add onions and spices, cooking until translucent.
- Simmer the Stew: Add soaked corn and beans, pumpkin, potato, and enough water to cover. Simmer for 2-3 hours, until thick.
- Serve: Enjoy hot, with bread on the side.
- Toasting the corn slightly before adding it to the stew enhances its flavor.
- Add a spoonful of paprika or a dash of cumin for an extra layer of warmth and complexity
Tips for the best Locro
- Taste as you go. Seasoning at the end is fine, but adjusting halfway through gives a more balanced result.
- Let the beef come up to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking so it cooks evenly.
- Read the whole method before you start and measure out the 11 ingredients first — it keeps the pace relaxed once the heat is on.
- Rest the finished dish for a few minutes before serving — it lets the flavours settle and the texture firm up.
Variations
- Vegetable boost: stir in a handful of spinach, peas or diced peppers in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Slow cooker: brown everything first, then cook on low for 6–8 hours instead of simmering.
- Fusion twist: keep the method but swap the spices for your own favourites — the Argentina base takes well to it.
Serving ideas
Serve hot with rice, potatoes or crusty bread, and something green on the side.
Storage
Cool completely, then refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot. Freezes well for up to 3 months.
Frequently asked questions
What can I substitute for dried white corn?
Any ingredient with a similar texture and cooking time works; see the variations below for ideas. Keep quantities the same and adjust seasoning at the end.
Is this Locro recipe medium to make?
It is rated medium: 11 ingredients and 6 steps. Follow the order and the tips above and it is very forgiving.
Can I make Locro ahead of time?
Yes. It actually improves after a few hours, so make it earlier in the day and reheat gently before serving.
Recipe data via TheMealDB — source
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