Mamona: The Delicious Roasted Calf of Colombia’s Llanos
By Luis Ospino - June 15, 2025 La Mamona is a culinary gem of Colombia that represents the essence of the llanos, their culture, and their love for roasted meat. Credit: Carlos Zambrano /CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 In the llano region of Colombia, you will find a culinary gem called “La Mamona,” also known as “ternera a la llanera” or “roasted calf.” This authentic and flavorful dish is a testament to the tradition and culinary skill of the Colombian llaneros . The heart of this delicacy begins with selecting a “criollo” calf. What makes La Mamona unique is the age of the animal used. Specifically, a “mamona” is a calf that is still nursing, typically around 9 months old. This choice of young meat contributes to the distinctive flavor and texture of La Mamona. Preparing ‘La Mamona’ The process of preparing La Mamona is an art in itself. The calf is broken down into a variety of cuts, each with its own characteristics. Some cuts include the rump, heron, bear, branding irons, ...