Argentine-Spiced Steak is a flavorful dish that combines the richness of beef with bold Argentine seasonings. Whether pan-grilled Argentine style or cooked on an open flame, this steak is a celebration of Argentina’s love for beef. Pair it with a no-bake chocotorta for dessert to balance the savory with the sweet. The authentic chimichurri sauce adds a bright, herbaceous contrast, making every bite an explosion of flavors.
Laurel and I had the opportunity to try the Argentine-Spiced Steak during our travels in Argentina, and it was an exceptional experience. The steak was expertly grilled, showcasing a beautiful, caramelised exterior with a juicy and tender centre. The distinctive Argentine spices were generously applied, giving the meat a rich and aromatic crust. The presentation of the Argentine-Spiced Steak was simple yet elegant, allowing the bold spices and high-quality meat to take centre stage.
The Argentine-Spiced Steak was served with a garnish that complemented its robust seasoning. The spices, while prominent, did not overshadow the natural flavour of the steak, enhancing rather than masking its inherent qualities. Each bite of the Argentine-Spiced Steak offered a delightful balance of spice and meat, reflecting the skillful preparation that went into making this dish.
Reflecting on our meal, the Argentine-Spiced Steak stood out as a true highlight of our dining experience. The combination of expertly grilled meat and well-chosen spices made it a memorable part of our journey, perfectly capturing the essence of Argentinian steak tradition. This dish demonstrated the meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality that defines Argentinian cuisine.
Ingredients For the Argentine-Spiced Steak Recipe
Flank or Skirt Steak
Olive Oil
Red Wine Vinegar
Fresh Parsley
Garlic Cloves
Paprika
Ground Cumin
Dried Oregano
Red Pepper
Salt
Black Pepper
Cooking Instructions For the Argentine-Spiced Steak Recipe
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, chopped parsley, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the flank or skirt steak to the marinade, making sure that it is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate the steak in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve the spiced steak hot with chimichurri sauce and your favorite side dishes.
5 Reasons to Love Argentine Red Shrimp Recipes
1. Rich Grilling Tradition
Reason: The art of grilling, or asado, is deeply ingrained in Argentinian culture. The emphasis on high-quality beef and simple seasoning lets the natural flavors shine, making each bite satisfying.
2. Diverse Flavors
Reason: Argentinian cuisine offers a wide variety of flavors, from the tangy chimichurri sauce to the sweet richness of dulce de leche. This diversity means there’s always something new and exciting to taste.
3. Family Atmosphere
Reason: Every dish in Argentina tells a story, reflecting the country’s history and cultural influences. Whether it’s a traditional empanada or a comforting bowl of locro, each meal connects you to the country’s vibrant heritage.
4. Fresh, Local Ingredients
Reason: Argentinian food emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, from the beef to the vegetables used in salads. This focus on quality ensures that each dish is flavorful and nourishing.
5. Community and Family
Reason: Meals in Argentina are more than just about food; they are a way to bring people together. The communal experience of sharing an asado or a family dinner creates strong bonds and lasting memories.
10 Tips for Cooking Traditional Argentinian Recipes
1. Select the Best Beef Cuts
Tip: Choose cuts like ribeye, sirloin, or flank for traditional Argentinian dishes. Look for well-marbled meat for optimal flavor.
Why: The quality of the beef is crucial in Argentinian cuisine, where grilling (asado) is central. Well-marbled meat ensures tenderness and juiciness.
2. Use Hardwood Charcoal for Grilling
Tip: Opt for hardwood charcoal instead of briquettes when grilling. It burns hotter and imparts a smoky flavor to the meat.
Why: The type of charcoal used can significantly affect the taste of grilled dishes, a key element in Argentinian cooking.
3. Marinate with Simple Ingredients
Tip: Use basic marinades of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs for meats. Avoid overpowering the natural flavor of the meat.
Why: Argentinian cuisine values the natural taste of ingredients. Simple marinades enhance the flavor without overwhelming it.
4. Cook Empanadas with a Golden Crust
Tip: Brush empanadas with an egg wash before baking to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
Why: A golden crust not only improves the texture but also adds an appealing visual aspect, making the empanadas more appetizing.
5. Serve Chimichurri as a Condiment
Tip: Prepare chimichurri using fresh parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar, and olive oil. Serve it alongside grilled meats.
Why: Chimichurri is a staple in Argentinian cuisine, complementing the rich flavors of grilled meats with its tangy and herbaceous profile.
6. Cook Milanesa to a Crispy Perfection
Tip: Fry breaded beef or chicken cutlets in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Why: The crispiness of Milanesa is key to its appeal. Proper frying ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the meat tender inside.
7. Prepare Locro for a Hearty Meal
Tip: Slow-cook a mix of corn, beans, pork, and chorizo for several hours. Season with paprika, cumin, and bay leaves.
Why: Locro is a traditional stew enjoyed during national celebrations, and its long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and hearty dish.
8. Use Fresh Ingredients for Salads
Tip: Include fresh tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and boiled eggs in salads. Dress with olive oil, vinegar, and salt.
Why: Fresh ingredients are essential in Argentinian salads, providing a crisp and refreshing contrast to heavier meat dishes.
9. Achieve the Perfect Dulce de Leche Consistency
Tip: Cook sweetened condensed milk slowly, stirring frequently until it thickens and turns a caramel color.
Why: Dulce de leche is a beloved dessert component in Argentina. Its smooth, rich texture enhances pastries and sweets like alfajores.
10. Serve Wine to Complement the Meal
Tip: Pair Argentinian dishes with Malbec wine, known for its deep flavor and smooth finish.
Why: Wine is a vital part of Argentinian dining culture. A well-chosen wine enhances the dining experience by complementing the flavors of the food.
5 FAQ For the Argentine-Spiced Steak Recipe
Q: What is Argentine-Spiced steak?
A: Argentine-Spiced steak is a steak seasoned with traditional Argentine spices, including ingredients like paprika, cumin, garlic, and sometimes oregano, to enhance the natural flavor of the beef.
Q: How do you make Argentine-Spiced steak?
A: To make Argentine-Spiced steak, rub the steak with a blend of spices such as paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and salt, then grill it over a high flame until it reaches your desired doneness.
Q: What spices are used in Argentine-Spiced steak?
A: Argentine-Spiced steak commonly uses spices like paprika, cumin, garlic, oregano, and sometimes black pepper, giving the steak a smoky and savory flavor typical of Argentine cuisine.
Q: Can I marinate Argentine-Spiced steak before grilling?
A: Yes, you can marinate Argentine-Spiced steak by mixing the spices with olive oil and letting the steak sit in the marinade for a few hours, enhancing the flavor before grilling.
Q: What sides go well with Argentine-Spiced steak?
A: Sides like grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad pair well with Argentine-Spiced steak, as they complement the rich and smoky flavors of the seasoned meat.
Argentinian Spiced Steak
Equipment
- Large bowl for marinating
- Grill or grill pan for cooking the steak
Ingredients
- 2 pounds flank or skirt steak
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp paprika
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, chopped parsley, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the flank or skirt steak to the marinade, making sure that it is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate the steak in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off any excess. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips.
- Serve the spiced steak hot with chimichurri sauce and your favorite side dishes.
1 comment
I had never had Chimuchurri but it was a a great marinade for the steaks.
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