Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Argentina! While many associate the country with football, tango, or fine red wine, travelers and food enthusiasts know that it’s also a paradise for those who savor good cuisine. Beef is indeed the king of Argentine cuisine, but there’s so much more to explore. This list features 30 mouthwatering Argentinian foods that will tantalize your taste buds.
From traditional dishes influenced by Spanish and Italian cuisine to modern twists, you’ll discover a rich gastronomic heritage. Be sure to try iconic eats like Fugazza Pizza, Milanesa, and experience the magic of an asado – it’s no wonder Argentinians are steak aficionados! Interestingly, Argentina boasts more cattle than people, making it a veritable haven for meat lovers. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to indulge in some world-class eats, Argentina is the perfect destination.
Fugazza Pizza
For those just starting their culinary journey, this recipe is an excellent choice. Its simplicity and reliability make it a great option for building confidence in the kitchen. The crust, when perfectly executed, yields a soft and airy texture that provides a lovely foundation for your chosen toppings. Sweet sautéed onions are a classic addition, often complemented by the earthy flavor of oregano.
Feel free to get creative with your own favorite combinations – think parmesan, olives, pimento, or whatever suits your taste buds. The end result is a truly delightful dish that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Provoleta (Grilled Provolone Cheese)
Indulge in this delectable hot appetizer that can be prepared in a mere three minutes! The key to its success lies in the chunky cheese, which ensures each bite is filled with rich flavor. To elevate this treat further, serve it alongside a tangy chimichurri and crusty artisan bread. Alternatively, for a more balanced option, consider pairing it with some nutritious greens such as asparagus – the perfect combination of indulgence and wellness.
Choripán
While Spanish chorizo has its own unique characteristics, Argentinian chorizo stands out for its uncured nature and absence of pimentón. The difference is what makes this street food staple so special. To experience the authentic taste, you need to try grilled sausage sandwiches with a cold beer. This mouthwatering treat typically involves wrapping sliced chorizo in a long, split roll and smothering it with tangy chimichurri sauce.
As the aroma of sizzling meat wafts through your kitchen and the sounds of grilling fill the air, you’ll find everyone in your vicinity drawn to the savory delight.
Argentinian-Style Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri’s vibrant flavor is capable of elevating even the most mundane dishes to new heights. This zesty, herbaceous condiment, hailing from Argentina, is a masterful blend of fresh herbs, vinegar, chilies, garlic, and olive oil. With its versatility, you can either process it in a food processor or opt for an old-school approach, finely chopping each ingredient with precision.
What’s more, the abundance of ingredients allows for batch production, ensuring you’ll have a stash ready to add that extra je ne sais quoi to any meal.
Red Chimichurri (Chimichurri Rojo)
Unleash the boundless possibilities of this bold and aromatic sauce by incorporating it into various aspects of your daily culinary routine. The versatility of this red chimichurri rojo knows no bounds, making it an ideal condiment to elevate the flavor profile of even the most mundane dishes. Imagine drizzling it over a savory asado or complementing its zesty flavors with roasted vegetables.
Take it up a notch by using it as a dip for your favorite crackers and chips, adding an extra layer of excitement to snack time. But why stop there? Consider combining this red chimichurri rojo with its green counterpart to create a truly show-stopping flavor experience. The possibilities are endless, making it the perfect opportunity to ‘chimichurri’ your life – bringing a burst of flavor and fun into every meal.
Steak Asado
In Argentina, it’s not just about the quality of their exported meat that sets them apart – it’s also their mastery of preparing it. A key part of this expertise is the art of asado, which goes beyond simply grilling meat cuts. It involves a precise combination of techniques, from igniting the flames to marinating and cooking the meat to perfection.
For an authentic taste of Argentina, no asado recipe would be complete without its signature accompaniment: chimichurri.
And instead of a cold beer, why not pair it with a rich, bold red wine from the region?
Milanesa (Argentina Fried Breaded Beef)
Indulge your taste buds in the savory delight of steak milanesa, where a golden-brown crust gives way to a tender and juicy interior. To achieve this mouthwatering texture, allow the beef to soak up the flavors of parsley, pepper, and garlic for at least an hour in the marinade. This classic recipe has been adapted to accommodate chicken or fish, yielding similar impressive results. Savor every bite with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or crispy French fries.
Matambre Arrollado
This captivating dish boasts an understated charm, requiring minimal input from you. The meat’s harmonious blend of eggs, vegetables, and herbs, carefully rolled before grilling, yields a visually stunning presentation. With its rapid preparation time, it serves as an ideal accompaniment to the main course while waiting in the wings – hence its moniker ‘Hunger Killer.’ Savor it warm or chilled, paired with the zesty zip of chimichurri sauce.
Chupín De Pescado
In the heart of Argentina, there’s a comforting fish recipe that combines the freshness of bell peppers, potatoes, tomatoes, and herbs to create a warm and inviting bowl that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its delectable taste but also in its simplicity – it can be prepared in mere moments and served with crusty bread to mop up every last morsel of flavor.
Locro (Argentinian Squash Stew)
Warm up on a chilly evening with this delightful locro recipe, featuring a harmonious blend of butternut squash, beans, and corn. The slightly sweet and creamy dish is elevated by the vibrant addition of paprika, adding a pop of color and spice to every bite. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients until you’ve crafted a perfect bowl of comfort that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Argentinian Tamales
These tamales are ideal for social gatherings, whether you’re looking for an appetizer or a light dinner option. To prepare them, start by grinding fresh corn and mixing it with some tasty additives. Then, stuff the mixture into corn husks and steam until cooked through. For added flavor, serve the tamales with your favorite sauce on the side or pair them with a warm cup of coffee for a breakfast treat.
Revuelto Gramajo
Indulge in the rich culinary tradition of Argentine scrambled eggs, elevated by a medley of savory elements. Bacon, eggs, potatoes, and cheese harmonize in perfect unison, while French fries, peas, fresh vegetables, and various meats like fish and pork may also make an appearance, depending on your location within Argentina. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and discover the ideal combination that will leave even the pickiest of eaters craving more.
Carbonada Criolla
This unique beer stew is a masterclass in contrasting flavors and textures, culminating in a filling and comforting culinary experience. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes and raisins provides a delightful contrast to the earthy undertones of the tomatoes, onions, squash, and stew, creating a rich tapestry of tastes that will leave everyone satisfied. Serve this hearty dish with a side of warm cornbread and a crisp salad for a truly satisfying meal.
Punched Potatoes
The unassuming potato has become an unlikely victim of Argentine culinary tradition. But what’s behind this peculiar practice? The answer lies in the cooking process itself. As you prepare your spuds, a series of gentle assaults – punching and then cooking – yields a surprising outcome. This unusual technique may seem counterintuitive at first, but it’s actually a clever way to achieve crispy, creamy, and irresistibly addictive potatoes.
When paired with fish, meat, or a fresh salad, these little tubers become a match made in heaven.
Ñoqui Con Tuco (Potato Gnocchi With Tomato Sauce)
In Argentina, it’s not uncommon to see pasta and spaghetti paired with a hearty and rich sauce known as tuco. This robust condiment adds a meaty depth to the dish that’s simply irresistible. For a truly unforgettable experience, try combining tuco with potato gnocchi and a glass of fine Argentine wine. The result is a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Lomito (Argentinian Steak Sandwich)
Imagine a quintessential American diner, but instead of the usual fare, picture a menu filled with creative twists. This isn’t just about burgers – it’s about elevating the classics with rich, indulgent toppings like melted cheese, savory ham, and a perfectly cooked fried egg. The result is a culinary experience that will leave you wanting more.
Pair your lomito with a side of crispy French fries and witness the magic unfold as every bite disappears without a trace.
Argentine Tomato Sauce
The versatility of this sauce is truly remarkable. Not only does it require minimal effort to prepare, but it also pairs seamlessly with an incredibly broad range of dishes. Imagine it elevating the flavor of your favorite meats, adding a tangy twist to scrambled eggs at breakfast, complementing the rich flavors of spaghetti and pasta, or serving as a delicious accompaniment to crudités and crackers.
Once you’ve tasted this sauce, you can be sure that friends and family will be clamoring for more.
Argentinian Ravioles
Indulge in the culinary delight of homemade ravioli, where every second spent preparing this dish can transform you into a kitchen virtuoso. As you carefully craft each bite-sized masterpiece, you’ll be rewarded with a chorus of satisfied sighs and clean plates. The end result: a sumptuous feast that will leave your guests in awe and their stomachs pleasantly full.
Fainá (Chickpea Flour Pancake)
While sharing similarities with Italy’s beloved farinata, this recipe boasts its own unique character – a harmonious balance of pepperiness and nuttiness. Its versatility as an appetizer is undeniable, particularly when paired with creative toppings or a flavorful dip like chimichurri sauce or tomato sauce, elevating the dining experience to new heights.
Argentinian Chipa
Indulge in the creamy delight of Argentina’s take on cheese puffs, where a soft and gooey center awaits. This accessible recipe caters to novice cooks, guaranteeing perfectly portioned cheese balls that are best savored when freshly baked.
Hearts Of Palm & Avocado Salad
Crafting this delectable salad requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Its vibrant colors are not only appealing to the eye but also allow for easy scaling – simply multiply the ingredients to feed a larger group. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely lunch or need a refreshing side dish, this salad’s versatility makes it an excellent addition to any occasion.
Argentine Golf Sauce
Combine ketchup and mayonnaise to create an irresistibly sweet and tangy condiment. This sauce’s sweet, fruity flavor pairs perfectly with sandwiches, sausages, or as a dip. Its addictive quality stems from the harmonious balance of sugary sweetness and tangy zip. Simply mix the two ingredients together for a delightfully pink sauce that will quickly become your go-to accompaniment.
Traditional Argentine Salad
A simple yet versatile side dish that complements a wide range of meals. To create this delightful accompaniment, all you require are a few readily available ingredients: thinly sliced cabbage, juicy tomatoes, and a trifecta of flavors courtesy of olive oil, garlic, and onions.
Argentine Shrimp Scampi
Elevate your dinner party game by serving an impressive shrimp scampi dish, perfectly complemented by zucchini noodles or pasta. This flavorful and visually appealing recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it a great option for a quick and delicious meal that will surely delight your guests.
Salsa Criolla (Argentinian Salsa)
When it comes to crafting a superior salsa, freshness is key. This Argentinian rendition excels by marrying crisp vegetables with the essence of local seasons. To elevate this already impressive condiment, incorporate other available ingredients that harmonize beautifully with grilled meats and choripan, staples in Argentine cuisine.
Argentinian Beef Skewers
What sets this dish apart is the distinctive marinade, which incorporates wine to deliver an unparalleled depth of flavor. As the meat absorbs the marinade over time, it becomes increasingly savory and aromatic. To elevate your dining experience, consider serving the finished product alongside fluffy potatoes, a vibrant salsa, or a light and refreshing green salad.
Argentine Chicken Chimichurri (Pollo Con Chimichurri)
When crafting your ideal dish, opt for chicken pieces with the bone and skin intact. I personally recommend using drumsticks and thighs in this recipe. To round out the meal, serve it alongside a refreshing light salad and some satisfyingly baked potatoes.
Argentine Marinated Eggplant
For gatherings, this recipe stands out due to its ability to be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. The secret ingredient that elevates this easy-to-make dish is a generous amount of fresh oregano. Its unique flavor profile makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any social occasion.
Empanadas Mendocinas (Argentinian Empanadas)
Argentinian empanadas stand out from the rest due to their unique blend of flavors and ingredients. The combination of spices, olives, beef, and occasionally hard-boiled eggs, all wrapped in a flaky pastry crust, creates a truly distinctive culinary experience. And the best part? You have three methods to prepare them: air-fry, bake, or deep-fry – each yielding its own delightful outcome.
Lamb Al Asador
Savoring the flavors of an authentic Argentine Asado, one delightful approach to serving lamb is through whole-roasting, expertly guided by loved ones and friends. The tender process begins with flaying the lamb, then carefully suspending it on a cross over an open pit fire, ensuring every drop of juice remains intact as it bastes the meat.
The bottom line
Argentina’s rich wine heritage is no secret, with the country ranking as the fifth largest wine producer globally. While locals do enjoy a significant portion of their beef, there’s another way to savor the Argentine experience – pairing it with a glass of Malbec and embracing la dolce vita. To bring people together and create unforgettable memories, consider hosting an Asado, a traditional gathering that pairs perfectly with a variety of mouth-watering Argentine dishes.
If you’re more excited about the promise of good food than anything else, then this list of 30 must-try Argentine foods is sure to capture your attention.
