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ArgentinaTraditional

Asado

The quintessential Argentine barbecue, featuring various cuts of beef slow-cooked over an open wood or charcoal fire.

1 hr 15 minIntermediate4 servings
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Asado

Origin & history

Asado originated with the gauchos (cowboys) of the Argentine Pampas. They would roast whole carcasses over an open fire, a tradition that has evolved into a social ritual central to Argentine culture.

Ingredients

4

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Meat

Seasoning

Sauce

The method

Step by step

4 steps
  1. 01

    Prepare Fire

    45 min

    Build a fire using wood or charcoal. Let it burn down until you have a bed of glowing embers. The heat should be medium-low for slow cooking.

    Patience is key; do not rush the fire.

  2. 02

    Season

    5 min

    Generously salt the meat on all sides with coarse salt just before placing it on the grill.

    Use plenty of salt; it creates the crust.

  3. 03

    Grill

    1 hr

    Place the meat on the grill. Cook slowly, turning only once. The ribs should take about 45-60 minutes, and the flank steak about 40-50 minutes.

    Keep the meat away from direct flames.

  4. 04

    Rest

    10 min

    Remove the meat from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes before slicing.

    Resting ensures the juices redistribute.

Chef tips

  • — Serve with chimichurri.
  • — Use high-quality beef.

Common mistakes

  • — Cooking over high flames.
  • — Not letting the meat rest.

Substitutions

  • Tira de asado → Beef short ribsStandard butcher cut.

Storage & serving

Refrigerate leftovers for 2 days.

Serve family-style on a large platter.

Food safety

Ensure meat is cooked to desired doneness. Handle raw meat with separate utensils.

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