Lechona Tolimense: Tolima-style Colombian Stuffed Pork

Lechona Tolimense is a traditional Colombian dish originating from the Tolima region. It consists of a whole roasted pig stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, peas, and spices. This dish is often served at special occasions and celebrations, making it a true centerpiece of Colombian cuisine.

Lechona Tolimense: Tolima-style Colombian Stuffed Pork

Ingredients

  • 1 whole pig, cleaned and deboned
  • 5 cups of cooked rice
  • 2 cups of cooked peas
  • 1 cup of hogao (Colombian tomato and onion sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon of achiote powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, peas, hogao, cumin, achiote powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stuff the pig with the rice mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
  4. Sew the pig back together using kitchen twine or secure it with skewers.
  5. Place the stuffed pig in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for 6 hours, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Let the lechona rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
6 hours
Total time:
6 hours
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
350 per serving
Protein
25g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fat
15g

Supplies

Roasting pan Kitchen twine

Tools

Oven Carving knife

Serving suggestions

Serve the lechona tolimese with fresh avocado slices, arepas, and aji picante (spicy Colombian salsa) for a complete and authentic Colombian meal.

Tips & tricks

To achieve a crispy skin, baste the pig with its own juices every hour during the roasting process.

Cost

$60