Locro Paraguayo
A hearty and flavorful corn and meat stew, Locro Paraguayo is a comforting dish often prepared for special occasions. It features tender chunks of beef and pork simmered with corn, vegetables, and aromatic spices.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef chuck(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 300 g Pork shoulder(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 500 g Yellow corn kernels(fresh or frozen)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 1 red Bell pepper(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(diced)
- 1.5 liters Beef broth
- 2 Bay leaves
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Paprika
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef and pork cubes on all sides. Remove meat and set aside.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Stir in the diced tomatoes, cumin, and paprika. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Return the browned meat to the pot. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender.
⏱️ 1 hour 30 minutes - 5
Add the corn kernels to the pot. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the stew has thickened and the corn is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
⏱️ 1 hour - 6
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
💡 Tip: For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the corn kernels against the side of the pot before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓You can use a mix of fresh and frozen corn for added texture.
- ✓For a richer flavor, use a combination of beef and chicken broth.
- ✓If the stew becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water.
🔄 Variations
- Add diced pumpkin or sweet potato for extra sweetness and color.
- Include a bay leaf and a sprig of fresh thyme during simmering for added aroma.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce.