Lacón con Grelos
Platos principales • España
Acerca de Lacón con Grelos
Galician boiled pork shoulder with turnip greens and chorizo
How to Make Lacón con Grelos (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Lacón con Grelos is a beloved traditional dish from Galicia, Spain, known for its rustic flavors and cultural significance. This hearty meal combines lacón (cured pork shoulder), grelos (Galician turnip greens), and creamy potatoes, creating a satisfying and nourishing lunch that has been enjoyed for generations. The dish is deeply rooted in the Spanish countryside, especially in the northwest region, where the cool climate and fertile soil produce some of the finest grelos. The taste of Lacón con Grelos is a delightful blend of savory cured pork, slightly bitter greens, and soft, earthy potatoes. It's a meal that brings families together during the colder months and is often enjoyed at traditional gatherings and festivals. For anyone seeking an authentic Spanish experience, this dish offers a perfect glimpse into the heart of Galicia’s culinary traditions. Choosing Lacón con Grelos for lunch not only connects you to centuries of Spanish history but also provides a balanced meal that showcases the best of local, seasonal ingredients. Its simple preparation and wholesome components make it an excellent choice for those looking to explore healthy Spanish cooking at home.
Ingredients(for 1 large bowl with pork, grelos, and potatoes)
- 300g Cured pork shoulder (lacón) (traditionally salted and soaked overnight)
- 200g Grelos (turnip greens) (fresh or preserved)
- 2 medium Potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
- 1 small Chorizo (optional, for extra flavor) - optional
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (extra virgin)
- 1/2 tsp Paprika (pimentón) (sweet or smoked)
- 1 Bay leaf
- 2 cloves Garlic (peeled)
- to taste Salt (use sparingly if pork is salty)
- to taste Black pepper
Instructions
- 1
If using traditional salted lacón, soak the pork shoulder in cold water overnight to remove excess salt. Rinse well before cooking.
Overnight
Change the water once or twice to ensure a milder flavor.
- 2
Place the lacón in a large pot with enough water to cover. Add the bay leaf and garlic. Bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 60-70 minutes until the pork is tender.
70 minutes
Skim off any foam that rises to the surface for a clearer broth.
- 3
Add the peeled and chopped potatoes to the pot. Continue cooking for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
20 minutes
Cut potatoes into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- 4
If using chorizo, add it to the pot with the potatoes to infuse extra flavor. This step is optional for a lighter version.
15 minutes
Pierce the chorizo with a fork to release its juices.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy recipe for Lacón con Grelos uses lean cuts of pork, minimal added fat, and an abundance of leafy greens, making it a nutritious Spanish lunch. By blanching the greens and limiting processed meats like chorizo, the dish is lower in sodium and saturated fats while retaining its authentic Galician flavors. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking hearty, wholesome meals with traditional Spanish roots.
Lacón con Grelos is rich in protein from the pork shoulder and offers dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and K from grelos (turnip greens). The potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, while olive oil adds healthy fats and antioxidants. This dish is naturally gluten-free and low in added sugars, making it suitable for balanced diets. The inclusion of greens supports digestive health and immunity.
Pro Tips
- 💡Soak cured pork overnight to control saltiness.
- 💡Always blanch grelos to reduce their natural bitterness.
- 💡For added flavor, sprinkle smoked paprika just before serving.
Storage & Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it moist.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 170.0 kcal |
| Protein | 14.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5.0 g |
| Total Fat | 10.0 g |
| Fiber | 2.0 g |