Asado

Asado

Asado is a traditional Argentine barbecue featuring a variety of beef cuts grilled over wood fire, delivering a smoky, deeply savory feast. This recipe guides you through preparing and grilling mixed beef cuts alongside chorizo and morcilla for a classic asado experience.

Beef

Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

120 min

Servings

6

Asado holds a special place in Argentine culture, symbolizing gatherings of family and friends centered around good food and conversation. The term 'asado' refers both to the method of cooking meat over an open flame and to the social event where this feast is enjoyed. The rich aroma of wood smoke infusing the meat is an essential part of the experience. This recipe highlights several cuts of beef, each bringing its own texture and flavor profile, accompanied by two traditional sausages: chorizo and morcilla. Cooking over wood coals allows the meat to slowly absorb smoky notes while achieving a perfectly tender texture. Pair this dish with a refreshing chimichurri sauce, grilled vegetables, and crusty bread to balance the robust flavors. A glass of robust Malbec is an ideal accompaniment, enhancing the smoky, rich tastes and complementing the festive atmosphere.

Ingredients

  • 2 kg Mixed Beef Cuts
  • 4 Chorizo
  • 2 Morcilla
  • To taste Salt

Instructions

Prepare the Fire: Begin by kindling a robust wood fire in your grill, allowing it to burn down gently until you're left with glowing, hot coals. This slow transition ensures steady, even heat and infuses the meat with a delicate smoky aroma. For best results, use a combination of wood and charcoal—wood for flavor, charcoal for steady heat. Season the Meat: While your fire matures, generously sprinkle salt over all the beef cuts. Salting just before grilling locks in the juices and intensifies the natural flavors, so avoid salting too early. Grill the Meat: Place the beef on the grill thoughtfully, positioning the thickest cuts farthest from the coals to ensure gentle, even cooking. After the beef has been searing for a while and has started to develop a beautiful crust, add the chorizo and morcilla to the grill, letting their rich, spiced flavors meld with the smoky air. Cook to Perfection: Maintain a watchful eye, turning the meats occasionally to encourage even browning and to prevent flare-ups. Depending on thickness, many cuts—like ribs—may take up to two hours to reach tender perfection, while thinner pieces will cook more quickly. Use visual cues and touch for doneness. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the meat rest undisturbed for about ten minutes—this crucial step allows juices to redistribute, resulting in succulent, juicy bites. Slice the meat against the grain and serve alongside a vibrant chimichurri sauce and your choice of grilled vegetables. Pro Tips: - Using mixed wood types enriches your fire's flavor profile and stabilizes cooking temperature. - Salt the meat just before it hits the grill to retain moisture. Serving Suggestions: Complete your asado with a fresh tomato salad and hearty, crusty bread. Open a bottle of Malbec to complement the deep, smoky flavors, creating a delightful and memorable meal.

Quick Info

Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
120 min
Total Time
140 min
Servings
6