A traditional Argentinian Asado

Image by Mariela Morales

There are few culinary traditions as rich and flavorful as the Argentinian asado, a time-honored style of barbecue that celebrates the art of grilling over an open flame. From succulent meats to vibrant chimichurri sauce, an asado is a feast for the senses that brings people together around the grill. Here’s a list of essential steps to setting up an asado BBQ and how to create an authentic Argentinian grilling experience in your own backyard.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Equipment
The first step in setting up an asado BBQ is selecting the right equipment. Traditional Argentinian asados are cooked over wood embers in a grill called a parrilla. If you have access to a parrilla, that’s fantastic! If not, a charcoal or gas grill can also be used with excellent results. Just be sure to have enough fuel on hand to keep the fire going, as you want with any BBQ.

Step 2: Selecting the Meat
Argentinian asados are known for their high-quality cuts of meat, such as rib-eye steaks, short ribs, chorizo sausages, and morcilla (blood sausage). Visit your local butcher or specialty store to source the best cuts available. Remember that marbling is key to juicy, flavorful meat, so opt for well-marbled cuts like rib-eye or skirt steak.

Step 3: Preparing the Fire
Building a good fire is crucial to a successful asado BBQ. For an asado you are traditionally using hardwood charcoal or wood to achieve a slow, even burn that will produce the perfect embers. The preparation of the fire is an art in itself, requiring patience and skill to ensure the right temperature for cooking.

Step 4: Seasoning and Grilling the Meat
Argentinian asados are known for their simple yet flavorful seasonings. A sprinkle of coarse salt is often all that’s needed to enhance the natural flavors of the meat. Season the meat just before placing it on the grill to prevent it from drying out. Cook the meat over the hot coals, turning occasionally until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Patience is key, as the meat cooks slowly, absorbing the smoky flavors from the wood.

Step 5: Serving the Asado
Once the meat is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve up your delicious feast. In Argentina, asados are often served family-style, with platters of grilled meat placed in the center of the table for everyone to enjoy. While the meat is the star of the show, the asado is accompanied by a variety of side dishes, including chimmichurri, provoleta, grilled vegetables or salads.

Setting up an asado BBQ is more than just cooking meat—it’s a celebration of tradition, community, and the joy of good food. It’s about the experience and the people. Guests gather around the grill, sipping on wine or beer, chatting, and enjoying each other’s company. The meal is served in stages, starting with the sausages and morcillas, followed by the various cuts of beef.
The meal can last for several hours, with everyone taking their time to savor each bite and enjoy the moment.

By following these steps and embracing the spirit of the Argentinian grill master, you can create an unforgettable culinary experience that will have your guests coming back for more. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and savor the flavors of an authentic Argentinian asado BBQ.

¡Buen provecho!