Food is an essential part of life in Buenos Aires, shaping both daily routines and social traditions. Beyond the well-known steakhouses and tourist-favorite spots, locals have their own way of enjoying meals, deeply influenced by Italian and Spanish heritage but with a distinctive Argentine twist. From the beloved milanesa to the traditional Sunday asado, the city’s cuisine reflects the habits and tastes of its residents. Here’s a closer look at the most popular dishes and how they fit into everyday life in Buenos Aires.
1. Milanesa Napolitana
A Buenos Aires classic, milanesa napolitana is a breaded and fried steak topped with ham, tomato sauce, and thick slices of mozzarella, all gratinated to perfection. It is typically served with French fries, and if there are leftovers, it can be turned into a delicious sandwich called sánguche de milanesa.
2. Choripán (Chorizo al Pan)
The king of Argentine street food, choripán is a grilled chorizo sausage placed in a crusty bun and accompanied by condiments like chimichurri or salsa criolla. It’s the perfect snack on the go and a must-have at any Argentine asado(barbecue).
3. Argentinian Empanadas
These delicious pastries can be filled with meat, ham and cheese, or vegetables. Baked or fried to golden perfection, empanadas vary by region: those from Salta are small and spicy, while Mendoza-style ones include garlic and olives. They are ideal as an appetizer, lunch, or even at celebrations.
4. Fugazzeta
A delight for cheese lovers, fugazzeta is a thick pizza stuffed with mozzarella and topped with caramelized onions. This dish evolved from Italian focaccia and is an Argentine favorite. Variations include fugazzeta de verdura (with spinach) and fugazzeta con jamón (with ham).
5. Asado: The Argentine BBQ Experience
Undoubtedly Argentina’s most iconic dish, asado is both a meal and a social event. Featuring high-quality meat cooked over an open flame, an asado includes chorizos, morcillas (blood sausages), and achuras (offal) as starters, followed by main cuts like bife de chorizo (sirloin), tira de asado (ribs), and vacío (flank steak). No asado is complete without chimichurri and salsa criolla.
6. Provoleta
A classic barbecue appetizer, provoleta is a thick slice of provolone cheese grilled until crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. It’s usually seasoned with oregano and crushed chili flakes and served with crusty bread and chimichurri.
7. Matambre a la Pizza
This dish consists of a thin matambre steak marinated in milk, grilled, and then topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and other ingredients like olives and roasted red peppers. It is sliced like a pizza and typically served with French fries or mashed potatoes.
8. Salsa Criolla
A fresh condiment made with onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and parsley, all seasoned with vinegar and lime juice. It perfectly complements grilled meats, sandwiches, and rice dishes.
9. Chimichurri
The quintessential Argentine sauce, chimichurri is a blend of parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar, oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Traditionally served with grilled meats, it also works as a marinade or dipping sauce.
Conclusion
The food scene in Buenos Aires is as rich and diverse as its culture. Whether enjoying a grilled steak, tasting a street-side empanada, or indulging in a slice of fugazzeta, every bite tells a story of Argentina’s passion for food. So, next time you’re in Buenos Aires, make sure to try these delicious specialties.
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