Parrillada (argentina) – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Argentina Servings: Serves 6
Argentina Servings: Serves 6Parrillada is a quintessential Argentine experience, capturing the essence of the country’s rich culinary culture known for its love of grilled meats. Originating from the Argentine Pampas, this dish embodies the tradition of bringing people together for a communal meal. The Parrillada typically consists of various meats cooked over a grill, imparting deep and smoky flavors, a result of generations perfecting the art of grilling under an open sky. This version is crafted to capture the soul of Argentina’s open-flame cooking while ensuring accessibility for home cooks everywhere.
Ingredients
- Beef short ribs – 2 lbs / 900 g
- Pork sausage (chorizo) – 6 links
- Blood sausage (morcilla) – 3 links
- Chicken thighs – 4, bone-in and skin-on
- Red bell peppers – 2, halved
- Lemon – 1, halved
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 mL
- Fresh oregano – 1 tbsp / 5 g
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the beef short ribs and chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and fresh oregano.
- Brush the red bell peppers with olive oil and place on the grill.
- Grill the beef short ribs, chicken thighs, pork sausage, and blood sausage, turning occasionally, until cooked through and nicely charred (about 8-10 minutes per side for beef and chicken).
- As the meats are cooking, periodically squeeze the lemon halves over them.
- Remove the meats and peppers once cooked to your liking and allow to rest for a few minutes.
- Serve hot, family-style on a large platter, accompanied by traditional chimichurri sauce.
Substitutions
- Beef short ribs -> Flank steak
- Pork sausage -> Italian sausage
- Blood sausage -> Regular pork sausage
- Olive oil -> Vegetable oil
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Marinate the meats in a mixture of garlic, oregano, and olive oil for 2-4 hours to enhance flavor.
- Add grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for additional variety.
- Incorporate a smoky wood chip, like hickory or mesquite, in your grill for an authentic Argentine aroma.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
