Argentina, a land of passionate tango, breathtaking landscapes, and, of course, mouthwatering cuisine. Argentine food is a vibrant tapestry woven from indigenous traditions, European immigration, and gaucho culture, resulting in a unique and unforgettable gastronomic experience. If you’re planning a trip or simply curious about exploring new flavors, prepare your taste buds for an adventure as we delve into 10 must-try Argentina Food dishes that will transport you straight to the heart of this South American gem.
1. Asado: The Quintessential Argentine Barbecue
No exploration of Argentina food is complete without experiencing the iconic asado. More than just a barbecue, asado is a social ritual, a celebration of meat, and a cornerstone of Argentine culture. Rooted in the traditions of the gauchos, the legendary Argentine cowboys, asado traditionally features a variety of grilled meats cooked over an open wood fire or charcoal grill, known as a parrilla.
Expect a carnivore’s paradise with offerings like succulent beef cuts (including vacío, tira de asado, and chorizo argentino), pork, ribs, sausages (chorizo and morcilla – blood sausage), and even offal like sweetbreads (mollejas). In Patagonia, you might even encounter a whole lamb or pig slowly roasting over the flames. Seasoned simply with salt, and often enhanced with the vibrant chimichurri sauce, asado is best enjoyed slowly, paired with a robust glass of Malbec, Argentina’s signature red wine.
To get a taste of asado at home, try experimenting with grilling different cuts of beef and preparing a homemade chimichurri sauce to drizzle over the cooked meat.
2. Chimichurri: Argentina’s Flavorful Green Sauce
Chimichurri is the undisputed king of Argentine condiments, a vibrant green salsa that elevates almost any dish it graces. This uncooked sauce is a harmonious blend of finely chopped parsley, oregano, garlic, onion, chilli flakes, olive oil, and a touch of acidity from vinegar or lemon juice.
Chimichurri’s versatility is remarkable. While most famously paired with grilled meats, blanketing them in herbaceous and garlicky goodness, it also serves as a marinade, a dipping sauce for bread, or a flavour booster for vegetables and salads. Its tangy and fresh profile cuts through the richness of grilled meats, creating a balanced and unforgettable flavor combination that is essential to Argentina food.
Explore the magic of chimichurri by making a batch at home. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and will transform your next barbecue or grilled dish into an Argentine-inspired feast.
3. Provoleta: Grilled Cheese, Argentine Style
Argentina’s strong Italian heritage shines through in provoleta, a unique and delightful twist on grilled cheese. Provoleta is the Argentine version of provolone cheese, specifically crafted for grilling. Thick discs of this semi-hard, cow’s milk cheese are seasoned with chilli flakes and oregano, then grilled until the outside is crispy and slightly caramelized, while the inside becomes wonderfully gooey and smoky.
Served hot off the grill, provoleta is often drizzled with olive oil or topped with a spoonful of chimichurri for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a popular appetizer at asados, providing a cheesy, savory start to the meat-centric meal. Provoleta perfectly exemplifies the Italian influence on Argentina food, showcasing how familiar ingredients can be transformed into something uniquely Argentine.
If you are a cheese lover, seeking out provoleta is a must when exploring Argentina food. You can even try grilling provolone cheese at home to recreate this delicious appetizer.
4. Dulce de Leche: Argentina’s Sweet Milk Jam
Dulce de leche, literally translated as “milk jam,” is Argentina’s beloved sweet indulgence. This luscious caramel spread is made by slowly simmering sweetened milk until it thickens and transforms into a rich, sticky, and decadent treat. The abundance of dairy from Argentina’s cattle ranches has undoubtedly contributed to the popularity and quality of dulce de leche.
This versatile confection is ubiquitous in Argentina food culture, appearing in countless desserts and treats. From alfajores and dessert empanadas to pancakes and toast, dulce de leche adds a touch of sweetness and creamy texture. It is also liberally drizzled over helado (ice cream), another national favorite, and enjoyed by Argentines of all ages.
Indulge in the sweet side of Argentina food by trying dulce de leche in various forms. You can find it readily available in stores, or even try making your own at home for a truly authentic experience.
5. Alfajores: Argentina’s National Cookie
Alfajores hold the title of Argentina’s unofficial national cookie, and the country is said to be the world’s largest consumer of these delightful treats. These delicate, crumbly cookies are typically made of two shortbread-like biscuits sandwiched together with a filling, most commonly dulce de leche, but also jams or mousses.
Alfajores have a fascinating history, tracing their origins back to the Arab world and Moorish Spain. The Spanish conquistadors brought them to Argentina, where they were enthusiastically embraced and adapted into the beloved cookie we know today. Argentines enjoy alfajores at any time of day, making them a constant presence in cafes, kiosks, and homes across the country.
Experience a taste of Argentina food culture by trying alfajores. They are the perfect sweet treat to accompany coffee or tea, and a wonderful representation of Argentina’s culinary heritage.
6. Empanadas: Savory and Sweet Pastries
Empanadas, another culinary gift with Moorish and Spanish roots, have become a staple in Argentina food, particularly popular among the working class for their portability and affordability. These savory pastries are essentially South American pasties, made from dough that is either baked or fried and filled with a variety of sweet or savory stuffings, depending on the region and preference.
Savory empanadas are filled with spiced ground beef, chicken, goat, cheese, or vegetables, often seasoned with cumin, paprika, and onions. Sweet empanadas, common in Córdoba, might contain quince jam, sweet potato paste, or, of course, dulce de leche, and are often dusted with cinnamon or sugar. The crimping pattern on the empanada’s edge often indicates the filling inside, adding a playful element to this versatile dish.
Sampling empanadas is a must to understand the diversity of Argentina food. They are perfect for a quick lunch, a snack on the go, or part of a larger meal, showcasing the country’s ability to create flavorful and satisfying dishes within a pastry shell.
7. Matambre Arrollado: The “Hunger Killer” Roll
While Argentina is famed for its thick cuts of grilled beef, matambre arrollado offers a different, equally delicious meat experience. Matambre, meaning “hunger killer,” is a thin cut of beef, similar to flank steak. For matambre arrollado, this thin cut is meticulously stuffed with vegetables like carrots and peppers, hard-boiled eggs, herbs, and olives.
The meat is then rolled tightly around the filling and can be boiled, baked, or grilled. The name “arrollado” refers to the rolling technique. Traditionally, matambre arrollado is often the first meat ready at an asado, serving as a flavorful “hunger killer” while the larger cuts of meat slowly cook to perfection.
Matambre arrollado is a testament to Argentine resourcefulness and culinary creativity, transforming a less tender cut of beef into a flavorful and visually appealing dish. It’s a great option for those looking to explore beyond the typical asado offerings within Argentina food.
8. Yerba Mate: Argentina’s National Infusion
Yerba mate is more than just a drink in Argentina; it’s a cultural institution. Indigenous populations of South America were the first to cultivate and consume yerba mate long before European colonization. This caffeinated herbal infusion is made from the dried and ground leaves of the yerba mate plant.
Traditionally, yerba mate is prepared in a gourd and drunk through a metal straw called a bombilla, which also acts as a sieve. Sharing mate is a deeply social ritual in Argentina. The gourd is passed around in a circle, with each person sipping before passing it to the next, fostering connection and conversation. You’ll find Argentines sipping mate throughout the day, from to-go cups to traditional gourds, highlighting its integral role in daily life and Argentina food culture.
Experiencing a mate sharing circle is a must for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in Argentine customs. Even if you don’t acquire a taste for the slightly bitter, earthy flavor, the social aspect of mate is an essential part of the Argentina experience.
9. Choripán: Argentina’s Ultimate Street Food
Choripán is Argentina’s quintessential street food, a simple yet incredibly satisfying sandwich that’s ubiquitous at football matches, markets, and street stalls across the country. The name “choripán” is a portmanteau of “chorizo” (sausage) and “pan” (bread), perfectly describing its main components.
Chorizo, typically a flavorful blend of pork and beef, is cooked over charcoal or wood fire, then butterflied and nestled into crusty bread. The essential topping is chimichurri, adding a burst of freshness and spice. Depending on the region and vendor, you might find choripán adorned with caramelized onions, pickled eggplant, peppers, and other condiments. Originating from gaucho traditions, choripán has transitioned from rural fare to urban street food icon, firmly establishing itself in Argentina food culture.
Grab a choripán from a street vendor for an authentic and delicious taste of Argentina food on the go. It’s the perfect savory snack or light meal, embodying the country’s love for grilled meats and flavorful sauces.
10. Carbonada: A Hearty Winter Stew
For colder months, carbonada is the ultimate comfort food in Argentina. This hearty, meaty stew is packed with flavor and warmth, designed to stick to your ribs on chilly days. Carbonada typically includes a mix of meat (beef is common), potatoes (both white and sweet), corn on the cob, carrots, peppers, bacon, and a surprising addition of fruits like dried apricots, raisins, peaches, pears, or green grapes.
Traditionally, carbonada is cooked and served in a hollowed-out pumpkin, which is placed directly on the barbecue to cook, imparting a subtle smoky flavor. Variations of carbonada exist throughout Argentina, and it even makes its way into empanadas as a portable stew filling.
If you’re visiting Argentina during the cooler seasons, seeking out carbonada is highly recommended. It’s a flavorful and nourishing dish that showcases the country’s ability to create hearty and satisfying meals, further enriching the diverse landscape of Argentina food.
Argentina food is a captivating blend of flavors, traditions, and cultural influences. From the iconic asado to the sweet indulgence of dulce de leche, each dish tells a story of Argentina’s rich culinary heritage. So, embark on your own food journey and discover the delicious heart of Argentina, one bite at a time.
