Top 6 Recipes for Authentic Argentinian BBQ

If you’ve ever experienced the rich, smoky flavours of Argentinian BBQ, you know it’s more than just food, it's a tradition. This style of cooking is known for its simplicity, natural flavours, and use of real fire. In Argentina, BBQ isn’t just about grilling meat. It’s a slow, thoughtful process where every detail counts.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through 6 must-try Argentinian BBQ recipes that bring authentic South American flavour to your garden. Whether you're new to grilling or a BBQ pro, these dishes will impress your family and guests alike. We've also added tips to help you build the perfect Argentinian BBQ menu at home.

Let’s fire up the grill!

What Makes Argentinian BBQ So Special?

Argentinian barbecue, known locally as "asado", is deeply rooted in tradition. What makes it different from other BBQ styles?

• It uses wood or natural charcoal for a smoky taste.
• The focus is on quality cuts of meat cooked low and slow.
• Minimal seasoning, just salt, is used to let the meat speak for itself.
• It’s all about sharing. The BBQ is a social event in Argentina.

To enjoy the whole experience, you’ll need good meat, an open flame, and a few essential tools like an Argentinian BBQ grill.

Top 6 Argentinian BBQ Recipes

Here are six easy and delicious Argentinian BBQ recipes that will give your cookout an authentic twist.

1. Asado de Tira (Short Ribs)

Asado de Tira is one of the most classic cuts used in Argentinian BBQ. These beef ribs are cut across the bone, creating thin strips with both meat and bone.

Ingredients:

• 2 kg beef short ribs
• Rock salt

Instructions:

1. Light your fire and wait for the coals to settle.
2. Season the ribs with coarse salt only.
3. Place them on the grill, bone-side down, over low heat.
4. Grill slowly for 1.5 to 2 hours.
5. Flip once halfway through.

Tip: Slow cooking gives them a smoky, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

2. Chorizo Sausage Sandwich (Choripán)

A BBQ in Argentina isn’t complete without Choripán, a grilled sausage sandwich served with chimichurri sauce.

Ingredients:

• 4 Argentine chorizo sausages
• Crusty rolls or baguettes
• Chimichurri sauce (see recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Grill the sausages until they’re golden and cooked through.
2. Slice open the rolls and toast lightly on the grill.
3. Place sausage in the bread and top with chimichurri.

Why it’s popular: It’s easy, tasty, and perfect as a starter for your Argentinian BBQ menu.

3. Provoleta (Grilled Cheese)

This is not your regular cheese dish. Provoleta is provolone cheese melted on the grill until bubbly and crispy on the edges.

Ingredients:

• 1 thick slice of provolone cheese
• Oregano
• Red chilli flakes
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Place the cheese on a small cast iron pan or grill tray.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano and chilli flakes.
3. Grill until the cheese is melted with a golden crust.

Serve hot with bread. It’s a favourite vegetarian option on many Argentinian BBQ menus.

4. Morcilla (Blood Sausage)

Morcilla adds depth and richness to your BBQ. It’s a soft, savoury sausage made with pork and spices.

Ingredients:

• 3–4 morcilla sausages

Instructions:

1. Grill whole over low heat for 20–30 minutes.
2. Turn gently to avoid splitting.

Serve sliced with crusty bread or as a side dish.

5. Matambre a la Pizza (Flank Steak Pizza Style)

A fun twist on BBQ: this dish takes a thin cut of beef and tops it like a pizza!

Ingredients:

• 1 kg flank steak (macabre)
• Tomato sauce
• Mozzarella cheese
• Oregano
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

• Grill the steak for about 10 minutes per side.
• Remove from the grill, and top with sauce, cheese, and oregano.
• Return to grill, cover, and cook until cheese melts.

Bonus: Kids love this one!

6. Chimichurri Sauce (The Classic BBQ Dressing)

Every Argentinian BBQ needs a jar of chimichurri. This garlicky green sauce brings everything to life.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup parsley, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Let it sit for 30 minutes for full flavour.

Serve over grilled meat, sausages, or bread.

Sample Argentinian BBQ Menu

Here’s a simple Argentinian BBQ menu to help you plan your next cookout:

Tips to Cook Like an Argentinian Grill Master

• Use wood or charcoal, never gas.
• Start early. BBQ is about patience.
• Don’t poke or flip the meat too much.
• Keep it simple. Salt is often enough.
• Serve meat in stages as it’s ready.

And, of course, make sure you have the right tools. Check out our Argentinian grill kit for all the essentials.

Best Grill Accessories to Elevate Your BBQ

To cook authentic Argentinian BBQ recipes, you'll need more than just a grill.

Consider adding these to your setup:

• Adjustable grill height rack
• Wood-burning firebox
• Long-handled tongs
• Cast iron pans for cheese and sides
• Chimichurri jars or brushes for basting

Get your grill accessories kit from Sunshine BBQs. Our collection includes the best grill accessories kits designed for traditional BBQ lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What kind of grill is best for Argentinian BBQ?

A: A wood or charcoal grill with adjustable height is ideal. It lets you control heat better. Try our Argentinian BBQ grill for the whole experience.

Q2. Can I make an Argentinian BBQ with gas?

A: You can, but it won’t have the same flavour. Argentinian BBQ is best when cooked over wood or charcoal.

Q3. What’s the best meat for an Argentinian BBQ?

A: Beef ribs, flank steak, and chorizo are top choices. Always go for thick cuts and grill slowly.

Q4. Do I need special tools?

A: A basic grill accessories kit is excellent for starting. For authentic style, get a complete Argentinian grill kit.

Q5. Is chimichurri spicy?

A: It’s not very spicy. It’s herby, tangy, and garlicky. You can add chilli flakes if you want extra heat.

Final Thoughts

Authentic Argentinian BBQ is about more than just food. It’s about time, tradition, and sharing a meal with people you love. These Argentinian BBQ recipes are simple, tasty, and perfect for any backyard gathering.

Whether you’re cooking short ribs or choripán, start with good ingredients, the right tools, and a little patience. At Sunshine BBQs, we offer everything you need to bring this experience to your home.

So, grab your grill, gather your friends, and enjoy the smoky flavours of Argentina right in your garden!