Chimichurri: A History of Flavors

Chimichurri is an uncooked sauce, a condiment of finely chopped parsley, garlic, olive oil, oregano and red wine vinegar. It is used to enhance beef, poultry, and vegetables, and it is a staple in the cuisines of Argentina and Uruguay.

The origins of chimichurri are uncertain, but there are several theories about how it came to be. One theory is that it was created by the gauchos, the cowboys of the Pampas region of Argentina and Uruguay. The gauchos would often grill beef over open fires, and they would use a simple sauce made from parsley, garlic, and vinegar to flavor the meat.

Another theory is that chimichurri was brought to South America by Spanish immigrants. In the Basque region of Spain, there is a similar sauce called “mojo verde” that is made from parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. It is possible that the Spanish immigrants adapted this sauce to the local ingredients of Argentina and Uruguay, and chimichurri was born.

Whatever its origins, chimichurri has become a beloved condiment in Argentina and Uruguay. It is used to flavor everything from grilled meats to empanadas to salads. It is also a popular ingredient in marinades and dressings.

How to Make Chimichurri

Chimichurri is a simple sauce to make, and there are many different variations on the basic recipe. The following is a classic recipe for chimichurri:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh oregano, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.
2. Taste and adjust the seasonings as desired.
3. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.

Variations on Chimichurri

There are many different ways to vary the basic chimichurri recipe. Some common variations include:

• Adding other herbs, such as basil, mint, or cilantro
• Using different types of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
• Adding other ingredients, such as chopped tomatoes, onions, or peppers
• Using different types of oil, such as avocado oil or walnut oil

How to Use Chimichurri

Chimichurri is a versatile condiment that can be used to flavor a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Grilled meats: Chimichurri is a classic accompaniment to grilled meats, such as steak, chicken, or pork.
• Empanadas: Chimichurri is a delicious filling for empanadas, which are fried or baked pastries.
• Salads: Chimichurri can be used to dress salads, adding a bright and flavorful touch.
• Marinades: Chimichurri can be used as a marinade for meats or vegetables.
• Dressings: Chimichurri can be used as a dressing for sandwiches, wraps, or tacos.

Chimichurri is a flavorful and versatile condiment that is easy to make and use. It is a staple in the cuisines of Argentina and Uruguay, and it is becoming increasingly popular around the world.