Dive into the heart of Galicia with our traditional dish, Lacón con Cachelos. Succulent boiled ham shoulder, tender and full of flavor, served alongside creamy boiled potatoes, known as cachelos. This iconic Galician specialty embodies the essence of simplicity and culinary mastery, showcasing the region's rich gastronomic heritage. Savor the authentic taste of Galicia with every bite of this hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 large ham shoulder (lacón)
• 4-6 medium-sized potatoes
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: Chorizo or other Galician sausages for added flavor
• Water for boiling

Instructions:

Prepare the Ham Shoulder (Lacón):

1- If your ham shoulder is salted, you may need to soak it in cold water for several hours or overnight to remove excess salt. Rinse it well before cooking.

2- Place the ham shoulder in a large pot and cover it with cold water.

Boil the Ham Shoulder:

1- Bring the water to a boil over high heat.

2- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer.

3- Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

4- Let the ham shoulder simmer for about 2 to 3 hours, or until it's tender and cooked through. The exact time will depend on the size of your ham shoulder.

Prepare the Potatoes (Cachelos):

1- While the ham shoulder is cooking, peel the potatoes and rinse them under cold water.

2- Cut the potatoes into chunks or large pieces, depending on your preference.

Cook the Potatoes:

1- Place the potato chunks in a separate pot and cover them with cold water.

2- Add a pinch of salt to the water.

3- Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the potatoes simmer until they are fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes.

Optional: Add Chorizo or Galician Sausages:

1- If desired, you can add whole chorizo or other Galician sausages to the pot with the ham shoulder during the last hour of cooking. This will infuse the dish with additional flavor.

Serve:

1- Once the ham shoulder is tender and the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the pots.

2- Slice the ham shoulder into thick slices.

3- Arrange the slices of lacón on a serving platter, surrounded by the boiled potatoes (cachelos).

4- Serve hot as a main course, accompanied by crusty bread and a glass of crisp Galician white wine.

Enjoy your authentic Galician Lacón con Cachelos!

Nutritional Values :

Ham Shoulder (Lacón):Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal per 100g

• Protein: Approximately 20-25g per 100g
• Fat: Approximately 15-20g per 100g
• Carbohydrates: Minimal, typically less than 1g per 100g
• Sodium: Depends on salt content, can vary significantly

benefits

• Provides a good source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, important for overall health and energy metabolism.
• Offers a savory flavor and meaty texture to dishes like Lacón con Cachelos, enhancing their taste and satisfaction.

Potatoes (Cachelos):Calories: Approximately 80-100 kcal per 100g (boiled without added fat)

• Protein: Approximately 2-3g per 100g
• Fat: Minimal, typically less than 1g per 100g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g per 100g
• Fiber: Approximately 2-3g per 100g
• Sodium: Minimal, typically less than 10mg per 100g

benefits

• Rich in complex carbohydrates, potatoes provide a steady source of energy for the body.
• High in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to maintain a feeling of fullness.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins, supporting immune function, electrolyte balance, and overall well-being

Chorizo or Galician Sausages (if added):Nutritional values can vary significantly depending on the type and brand of sausage used. However, chorizo typically contains:Calories: Approximately 400-500 kcal per 100g

• Protein: Approximately 20-25g per 100g
• Fat: Approximately 30-40g per 100g
• Carbohydrates: Minimal, typically less than 5g per 100g
• Sodium: Can be high, depending on the salt content and processing method

benefits

• Rich in protein, chorizo and Galician sausages contribute to muscle repair and growth.
• Contains healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation.
• Provides flavor and depth to dishes like Lacón con Cachelos, enhancing their taste and enjoyment.

It's important to note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as cooking methods, specific ingredients used, and serving sizes. If you're looking for more precise nutritional information, it's best to refer to the nutritional labels on the products you're using or consult with a registered dietitian.