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Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana

Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana

Origin: ArgentinePeriod: Traditional

Lomo de Cerdo a la Caucana is a traditional Argentine pork loin preparation distinguished by its simple yet flavorful marinade and sauce base incorporating butter, garlic, lemon juice, milk, and onion. The dish takes its name from the Cauca region, reflecting the broader Andean culinary influences that have shaped Argentina's northwestern food traditions. Characteristic of traditional Argentine home cooking, it relies on accessible pantry staples to produce a tender, lightly acidulated pork preparation with a mild, creamy pan sauce. The lemon juice serves both as a tenderizing agent and as a brightening counterpoint to the richness of the butter and milk.

Cultural Significance

The cultural and historical significance of this specific preparation is not well documented in major culinary literature, though pork loin dishes with Andean-influenced seasoning profiles represent an important category of everyday cooking in Argentina's interior provinces. The 'Caucana' designation likely references culinary traditions associated with communities of Andean or northwestern Argentine origin, where cross-cultural exchange between indigenous, Spanish colonial, and creole foodways produced many enduring family recipes. Its ingredients reflect the practical, resourceful cooking style common to rural Argentine households across multiple generations.

Prep15 min
Cook30 min
Total45 min
Servings4
Difficultyintermediate

Ingredients

Method

1
Mince the garlic and finely dice the onion, then combine them with lemon juice, salt, and a splash of milk to create the marinade. Score the pork loin lightly with a knife to allow the marinade to penetrate.
10 minutes
2
Place the pork loin in a shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, and turn to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate to marinate, allowing the flavors to infuse the meat.
60 minutes
3
Remove the pork loin from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature before cooking. Pat the surface lightly dry with paper towels, reserving the marinade.
15 minutes
4
Melt the butter in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat until it begins to foam. Sear the pork loin on all sides until golden brown, approximately 3 minutes per side.
12 minutes
5
Reduce the heat to medium and pour the reserved marinade along with the remaining milk into the pan around the pork loin. Stir gently to combine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
5 minutes
6
Cover the pan and cook the pork loin over low heat, basting occasionally with the pan sauce, until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F). Turn the loin halfway through cooking for even results.
35 minutes
7
Remove the pork loin from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board, tented loosely with foil. Meanwhile, increase the heat and reduce the pan sauce for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly thickened.
10 minutes
8
Slice the pork loin into medallions and arrange on a serving platter. Spoon the butter, garlic, and onion sauce over the top and serve immediately.
5 minutes

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