Hey there, Argentine asado lovers! Today, we’re diving into the world of Choripanes – simple yet delicious Argentine street food you’ll surely love. And they are the perfect complement for your Argentine Asado.
But hold up, what exactly is a Choripan?
Choripan is a sandwich invented in Argentina, though Uruguaians claim it was their invention, too. Regardless of this dispute 😂, choripan a simple yet satisfying combo of chorizo (a flavorful Argentine sausage) nestled inside a crusty bread roll. And let’s not forget about chimichurri! It sounds very simple and maybe nothing special, but I can assure you, it’s much more than just a sausage with bread.
Creating chorizos is not something that can be done at home (it can be dangerous, in fact, as pigs should be tested for trichinosis), but don’t worry: you can buy yours at Argentine butchers and online stores.
The process begins with selecting high-quality cuts of meat, typically pork or beef, which are trimmed of excess fat and sinew and then finely ground to achieve a great texture. Finally, a precise balance of spices such as paprika, garlic, and cumin is added to the mix, carefully measured to achieve the signature flavor of Argentine chorizos. Once seasoned, professionals stuff the meat into natural casings, often made from cleaned and prepared animal intestines, and then left to cure and mature.
As you can see, Argentine chorizo stands apart from common sausages. It has a unique blend of spices that gives it a smoky taste and is prepared with high-quality cuts of meat. No wonder it was it was rated the best type of hot dog in the world in 2023!
Also, keep in mind that Argentina produces different types of chorizo, with different sizes and flavors. For example, you can buy Chorizo Criollo, made with a blend of pork and beef, and seasoned with garlic, paprika, and other spices. On the other hand, you can also find Chorizo Parrillero, specifically crafted for grilling and made with a higher fat content to ensure juicy results.
Alright, time to fire up the grill! Here’s your step-by-step guide to grilling the best Choripan:
Once you’ve lit up your fire, ensure your grill is preheated to the right temperature. Aim for a medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C), to properly cook chorizos without them bursting open!
To further prevent your chorizos from bursting while grilling, lightly score them with a knife before placing them on the grill. In this way, steam will be able to escape the chorizo and ensure they cook evenly while staying intact.
Once your grill is hot and your chorizos are prepped, it’s time to get grilling! Place the chorizos directly on the grill grates (but away from the embers!) and cook them for about 15-25 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs. Don’t just leave them there: keep an eye on your chorizos to prevent burning and aim for that irresistible charred exterior and juicy interior.
While your chorizos are grilling, slice your bread rolls in half and toast them on the grill, too. This adds a delightful crunch!
Assembling your choripan is super easy: simply nestle your chorizos inside the toasted bread rolls, and remember to add your favorite condiments, such as salsa criolla or chimichurri.
Finally, the best part – share your Choripanes with friends and loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a casual picnic, Choripan is the best choice when it comes to street food. There you have it, now it’s up to you to choose and grill the best Choripan you’ve ever tasted.