Italian-style asado is a popular style of cooking in Argentina, Uruguay, and other parts of South America. The name “asado” refers to the cooking method, which involves slow-roasting meat over an open flame, often for several hours. The result is tender, flavorful meat with a crispy exterior and a smoky, charred flavor. Here are eight catering ideas for an Italian-style asado and a look at why this cooking style is so popular.
Want to know more form an expert catering firm – check out Asado catering ideas here. If you are not Italian, use Google translate or turn on auto-translate in your Google browser.
- Grilled Steak
One of the most popular dishes at an Argentine barbecue is grilled steak. A traditional Argentine asado typically features cuts of beef like ribeye or sirloin, seasoned with salt and grilled over a wood fire. The result is a perfectly cooked, juicy steak with a smoky flavor.
- Choripan
Choripan is a classic South American sandwich that’s perfect for catering. It’s made with grilled chorizo sausage and a crusty roll, topped with chimichurri sauce and other toppings like grilled onions or peppers. Choripan is a simple but flavorful dish that’s perfect for outdoor events.
- Asado de Tira
Asado de tira is a popular Argentine cut of beef, also known as beef short ribs. The ribs are slow-grilled over an open flame until they’re tender and caramelized, resulting in a rich, flavorful meat.
- Provoleta
Provoleta is a type of grilled provolone cheese that’s popular in Argentina and Uruguay. It’s typically served hot off the grill, with a crispy, caramelized exterior and a gooey, melted center. Provoleta is a great appetizer or side dish for any outdoor event.
- Empanadas
Empanadas are a type of stuffed pastry that are popular throughout Latin America. They can be filled with a variety of ingredients, including beef, cheese, chicken, or vegetables. Empanadas are a great finger food for parties and events.
- Chimichurri
Chimichurri is a tangy, herb-based sauce that’s popular in South America. It’s typically made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, and it’s used as a marinade or sauce for grilled meats. Chimichurri is a great way to add flavor to any dish at an Italian-style asado.
- Matambre
Matambre is a type of beef that’s popular in Argentina and Uruguay. It’s a thin, flat cut of meat that’s typically stuffed with a variety of fillings, like cheese, vegetables, or eggs, then rolled up and slow-grilled until it’s tender and crispy. Matambre is a unique and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special occasion.
- Alfajores
Alfajores are a popular South American cookie that’s made with cornstarch and filled with dulce de leche, a caramel-like spread made from sweetened condensed milk. They’re often dusted with powdered sugar and served as a sweet treat at the end of an Italian-style asado.
So why is the Italian-style asado so popular?
For one thing, it’s a social event that brings people together around a shared love of good food and drink. In Argentina and Uruguay, asados are often weekend events that bring together family and friends for an afternoon of grilling, eating, and drinking. It’s a time to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Another reason for the popularity of the Italian-style asado is the emphasis on quality ingredients. In Argentina, for example, beef is a major part of the culture and economy, and it’s widely regarded as some of the best in the world.