The 5 Best Argentine Asado Pairings for an Incredible Experience

There’s nothing quite like an Argentine asado. It’s not just about the meat—it’s the whole ritual: the fire, the friends, and of course, the flavors that go along with it. Over the years, I’ve tried to recreate that experience wherever I’ve lived, and the truth is, the right pairings make all the difference. A spoonful of real dulce de leche, a good mate, or a smoky seasoning can transport you straight back to those Sunday gatherings.

This list includes some of my personal favorites—products I’ve tested, enjoyed, and even gifted. Some surprised me, some disappointed, and others instantly became essentials in my pantry. These aren’t just generic recommendations; they’re part of how I keep my connection to Argentine Asado alive. If you’re looking to build your own spread or impress guests with something uniquely Argentinian, these are, in my experience, the best Argentine asado pairings to stock up on.

Best Argentine Asado Pairings

Here’s my list:

Best for traditional sipping

Argentina Yerba Mate Cup With Straw

If you think any mate gourd will do, this mate set will make you rethink everything about how you enjoy mate. After years of using basic stainless steel or budget-friendly gourds, I finally tried this one, and it’s on another level. The double-walled stainless steel keeps the temperature just right without burning your hands, and the Italian leather wrap adds a touch of elegance that makes the whole experience feel more refined. 

The bombilla gives a smooth, strong draw, and the included cleaning brush actually makes cleanup easy (for once). Yes, it’s on the pricier side, and the metal rim scratches a little too easily—but the quality is undeniable. If you’re serious about your mate ritual, this is the set that will elevate it.

Pros

1. Premium materials and craftsmanship – The combination of stainless steel and high-quality leather not only looks elegant but also feels solid and durable in the hand.
2. Excellent drinking experience – The included bombilla draws very well, making each sip smooth and enjoyable—noticeably better than cheaper alternatives I’ve tried.
3. Easy to clean – The stainless steel interior and included cleaning brush make maintenance quick and hassle-free.
4. Beautiful design – The leather finish and gold details elevate the look of the gourd, making it a standout piece on any asado table.

Cons:

1. Prone to cosmetic damage – Despite being careful, I noticed scratches developing on the metal rim sooner than expected.
2. Uneven base – The base isn’t perfectly level, and if you fill it to the top, there’s a risk of spillage—especially frustrating considering the price point.

Best for Sweet Tooth

Havanna Dulce de Leche

If you’ve ever been to Mar del Plata, you know that Havanna isn’t just a brand—it’s part of the culture. As someone who grew up there, I’ve had the real deal straight from the source, and Havanna’s dulce de leche has always been my go-to. Rich, creamy, and completely irresistible, it’s the kind of spread that makes even a plain piece of bread feel like a treat. 

I’ve used it to fill alfajores de maicena, spooned it over ice cream, and eaten it straight from the jar. This is one of the best dulce de leche options available outside Argentina. 

Pros:

1. Nostalgic flavor – The taste instantly brought me back to my childhood—sweet, creamy, and perfect for spreading on croissants or using in desserts.
2. Great for baking – I used it to fill homemade alfajores de maicena, and it worked beautifully—the texture held up, and the flavor was just right.
3. Secure packaging despite shipping issues – Even though the box arrived open, the product itself was sealed and in perfect condition.
4. Top-tier flavor for fans of dulce de leche – As someone who’s tried many brands, I’d say this one and Ilolay are consistently at the top when it comes to richness and depth.

Cons:

1. A bit overpriced– The price jump is hard to ignore. 
2. Not quite the original – As a person who knows the real thing, I could tell the difference: the texture was grainier, and the taste leaned more toward caramel than authentic Havanna. 

Best for mild mate

Yerba Mate Playadito 500gm

If you’re new to yerba mate and looking for something light, Playadito is a great place to start. It’s easy on the palate, less bitter than some traditional blends, and doesn’t overwhelm with dust. I’ve had a few smooth sessions with it, and it’s still a favorite in many households. That said, if you’re looking for bold flavor and rich aroma, Playadito might feel underwhelming, especially if you’ve been spoiled with stronger, more complex yerbas.

Pros

• Smooth and approachable flavor, especially good for beginners.
• Less dusty than other brands, which helps prevent bombilla clogging.
• Well-known and trusted brand with consistent quality across batches.
• Balanced bitterness—milder than traditional Argentine options, which some may prefer.

Cons

• Lacks depth and complexity in flavor; may taste flat to experienced drinkers
• Contains noticeable stems and coarse cuts, which affect both taste and cebada.

Best for special treats

Havanna Alfajores Argentinos – Box of 6

There’s nothing quite like Havanna alfajores. If you’ve never tried them, imagine the perfect combination of smooth dulce de leche, soft cookie layers, and rich chocolate that melts in your mouth. No matter if you’re gifting them or indulging on your own, they always deliver that special touch. And thanks to Amazon, they show up right at your door, ready to impress.

Pros

• Fresh, homemade-style flavor with premium dulce de leche and high-quality chocolate.
• Ideal for gifting, impressing guests, or treating yourself.
• Arrives well-packaged and in good condition.
• A classic Argentine treat, internationally recognized for its quality.

Cons

• Freshness may vary slightly depending on the batch.
• A bit pricey for an everyday snack.

Best for juicy asado

Steak Rub-Authentic Chimichurri

I used this Dos Gauchos chimichurri kit and rub for my Thanksgiving turkey, and let me tell you—it was a total game-changer. The aroma alone had everyone asking what I was cooking, and the flavor? Ridiculously good. I was a bit skeptical at first (it was my first time using a packaged brining kit), but the process was super straightforward, the bag was solid, and the results spoke for themselves. Even our picky eaters were scraping their plates. It’s not just for turkey, either—I’ve used the rub on steak and veggies since then, and it holds up every time. Honestly, I’m not going back to bland meat ever again.

Pros

• Incredibly aromatic—your kitchen will smell amazing.
• Makes turkey (and other meats) juicy, flavorful, and unforgettable.
• Brining kit is sturdy, easy to use, and foolproof—even for first-timers.
• The chimichurri rub works beautifully on everything from turkey to steak and veggies.
• Clear instructions and excellent value for the price.

Cons

• Some people may find the rosemary a bit strong—personal preference.
• Portion size might need adjusting for smaller birds or pieces of meat. 

Good food brings people together, and nothing captures that better than an Argentine asado. Having the right pairings on hand—like a silky dulce de leche or a bold chimichurri rub—takes the experience from good to unforgettable. These products help me stay connected to my roots and share that part of my culture with others, one bite at a time.

If you’re putting together a spread or just craving something that feels like home, these are truly some of the best Argentine asado pairings I’ve come across. Try them, tweak them, and find what makes your asado complete.

Summary

Article Name

The 5 Best Argentine Asado Pairings for an Incredible Experience

Description

If you’re looking to build your own spread or impress guests with something uniquely Argentinian, these are, in my experience, the best Argentine asado pairings to stock up on.

Author

Jason Pittock

Publisher Name

Argentine Asado