Discover the traditional recipe for Cochinillo Asado, the renowned roast suckling pig from Segovia. Perfect for special occasions, this Spanish delicacy features crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. Follow our step-by-step guide to achieve a succulent and perfectly roasted Cochinillo Asado, celebrated for its exquisite taste and classic Spanish charm.

Ingredients:

- 1 suckling pig (about 8-10 lbs)

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- Salt and black pepper to taste

-1 cup dry white wine

- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth

- 1 lemon, cut into wedges

- 2 onions, quartered

- 1 bay leaf

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Pig: Rinse the suckling pig under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the entire pig with olive oil, making sure to cover all surfaces.

Season: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the pig, including the inside cavity.

Arrange for Roasting: Place the pig on a rack in a large roasting pan. Stuff the cavity with lemon wedges, quartered onions, and a bay leaf.

Roast: Pour the white wine and chicken broth into the roasting pan. Roast the pig in the preheated oven, basting occasionally with the pan juices. Cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). 

Rest: Remove the pig from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes before carving.

Serve: Carve the Cochinillo Asado and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy this classic Segovian dish with family and friends.

This traditional Cochinillo Asado is perfect for festive gatherings and will impress your guests with its crispy skin and juicy meat.

Nutritional Value

Suckling Pig (8-10 lbs)

   - Approximately 250 calories

   - 21g protein

   - 20g fat

   - 0g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Rich in protein and fat; provides essential amino acids and energy. Contains vitamins and minerals like B12, zinc, and iron.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons)

  - Approximately:

   - 240 calories

   - 0g protein

   - 27g fat

   - 0g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Contains healthy monounsaturated fats; has anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants.

Garlic (4 cloves)

  - Approximately:

   - 18 calories

   - 1g protein

   - 0g fat

   - 4g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Provides flavor; supports immune health, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Fresh Rosemary (1 tablespoon)

  - Approximately:

   - 5 calories

   - 0g protein

   - 0g fat

   - 1g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor; contains antioxidants and supports digestion.

Fresh Thyme (1 tablespoon)

  - Approximately:

   - 5 calories

   - 0g protein

   - 0g fat

   - 1g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor; contains antioxidants and supports respiratory health.

Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon)

  - Approximately:

   - 6 calories

   - 0g protein

   - 0g fat

   - 1g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds a smoky flavor; contains antioxidants and vitamins A and C.

Salt (to taste)

   - 0 calories

   - 0g protein

   - 0g fat

   - 0g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Essential for flavor and preserving food. Use in moderation to maintain sodium levels.

Black Pepper (to taste)

  - Approximately (per teaspoon):

   - 6 calories

   - 0g protein

   - 0g fat

   - 2g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds spice; supports digestion and has antioxidant properties.

Dry White Wine (1 cup)

  - Approximately:

   - 125 calories

   - 0g protein

   - 0g fat

   - 4g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor; contains antioxidants. Alcohol content evaporates during cooking.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth (1 cup)

  - Approximately:

   - 15-30 calories

   - 1g protein

   - 1g fat

   - 1-2g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor and moisture; provides some vitamins and minerals depending on the type of broth.

Lemon (1 lemon)

  - Approximately:

   - 17 calories

   - 0.6g protein

   - 0.2g fat

   - 5.4g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds acidity and brightness; contains vitamin C and antioxidants.

Onions (2, quartered)

  - Approximately:

   - 80 calories (for 2 medium onions)

   - 2g protein

   - 0g fat

   - 19g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor; contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, supports heart health.

Bay Leaf (1)

  - Approximately:

   - 5 calories

   - 0g protein

   - 0g fat

   - 1g carbohydrates

Benefits:

   - Adds flavor; has anti-inflammatory and digestive health benefits.

Total Benefits:

This recipe offers a rich and flavorful dish with nutritional benefits from a variety of ingredients. The suckling pig provides protein and fat, while herbs and spices add flavor and health benefits. Olive oil and garlic contribute to heart health, and lemon and wine enhance the dish with additional flavor and antioxidants. The inclusion of broth helps to keep the meat moist and adds extra flavor.