The word locro comes from Quechua and has its origins in the pre-Hispanic and pre-Inca period, when it was prepared using corn, squash, and potatoes, making it a type of stew commonly consumed by indigenous peoples. In Peru, locro de zapallo (squash stew) was initially prepared mainly in the city...

Pumpkin Locro recipe
Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
40min
Total Time
1hr

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)
  • squash, peeled
    squash, peeled
    1kg
  • ear corn, cut into four pieces
    ear corn, cut into four pieces
    1
  • potatoes, halved
    potatoes, halved
    3
  • onion, chopped
    onion, chopped
    1
  • small tomato, chopped
    small tomato, chopped
    1
  • white pepper
    white pepper
    1/2tsp
  • fish backbone
    fish backbone
    1
  • garlic, minced
    garlic, minced
    2clove
  • fresh cheese, crumbled
    fresh cheese, crumbled
    100g
  • salt, to taste
    salt, to taste
  • cilantro, to taste
    cilantro, to taste

How to make Pumpkin Locro

  1. Step 1

    In a large pot, place the peeled and cubed squash, the potatoes, the corn pieces, and a bit of cilantro to taste.

  2. Step 2

    Cover the ingredients with water and place the fish backbone on top.

  3. Step 3

    Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender.

  4. Step 4

    Using a slotted spoon, remove the ingredients from the water, reserving the cooking broth.

  5. Step 5

    Mash the squash with a fork and set it aside.

  6. Step 6

    Prepare a sofrito by heating a bit of oil in a large skillet. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant.

  7. Step 7

    Add the chopped tomato and season with salt and white pepper to taste. Cook for 5 minutes.

  8. Step 8

    Add the mashed squash, the potatoes, and the corn pieces to the skillet. Mix well.

  9. Step 9

    Shred the fish backbone, mix it into the stew, and add the crumbled fresh cheese.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

61.4kcal (3.07%)

Protein

4.0g (7.9%)

Carbs

5.3g (1.95%)

Sugars

1.7g (3.4%)

Healthy Fat

1.0g

Unhealthy Fat

1.9g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a vegetarian version, omit the fish backbone and use vegetable broth instead.

  2. Serve with a side of cooked white rice for a complete meal.

  3. Adding a piece of fried fish on the side can enhance the dish's flavor and presentation.

  4. Use fresh, ripe squash for the best flavor and texture.

  5. Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt or white pepper if needed.

FAQS

  1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

    Yes, you can omit the fish backbone and use vegetable broth instead for a vegetarian version.

  2. What type of squash should I use?

    You can use any type of squash, but a ripe and sweet variety like butternut squash works best.

  3. Can I freeze leftovers?

    Yes, you can freeze the stew in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

  4. What can I serve with locro de zapallo?

    It is traditionally served with cooked white rice and optionally a piece of fried fish.

  5. How can I make the dish spicier?

    You can add a pinch of chili powder or a chopped chili pepper to the sofrito for extra heat.

Loading reviews...

chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia