What To Know
- This versatile sauce is a staple in traditional Asado, where it adds a burst of flavor to grilled meats.
- Marinate meats, such as steak, chicken, or fish, in chimichurri for several hours or overnight to infuse them with flavor.
- Chimichurri sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Chimichurri sauce, a vibrant and aromatic condiment, originates from Argentina and Uruguay. This versatile sauce is a staple in traditional Asado, where it adds a burst of flavor to grilled meats. Made with fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar, chimichurri sauce has become a global favorite, enhancing everything from steak to pasta.
Ingredients for Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh oregano, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Chimichurri Sauce
1. Gather your ingredients: Ensure you have all the necessary herbs, garlic, vinegar, oil, and seasonings.
2. Chop the herbs: Finely chop the parsley, cilantro, and oregano.
3. Mince the garlic: Use a sharp knife or press to mince the garlic cloves.
4. Whisk the vinegar and oil: In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar and olive oil.
5. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped herbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the vinegar-oil mixture: Gradually pour the vinegar-oil mixture over the herbs, whisking constantly.
7. Taste and adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You may add more vinegar for acidity, oil for richness, or herbs for freshness.
Variations of Chimichurri Sauce
- Spicy Chimichurri: Add a dash of chili flakes or chopped chili peppers for a kick.
- Herby Chimichurri: Increase the amount of herbs for a more intense flavor profile.
- Roasted Chimichurri: Roast the garlic and herbs before adding them to the sauce for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
- Green Chimichurri: Use only parsley and cilantro for a bright and herbaceous sauce.
- Red Chimichurri: Add chopped red bell peppers or tomatoes for a vibrant color and slightly sweet flavor.
Uses for Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:
- As a marinade: Marinate meats, such as steak, chicken, or fish, in chimichurri for several hours or overnight to infuse them with flavor.
- As a dipping sauce: Serve chimichurri as a dipping sauce for grilled meats, empanadas, or grilled vegetables.
- As a salad dressing: Drizzle chimichurri over salads for a tangy and flavorful dressing.
- As a topping: Top grilled meats, tacos, or sandwiches with chimichurri for an extra burst of flavor.
- As a pizza sauce: Use chimichurri as a flavorful sauce for homemade pizzas.
Health Benefits of Chimichurri Sauce
In addition to its delicious taste, chimichurri sauce offers several health benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants: The fresh herbs in chimichurri are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
- Anti-inflammatory: The herbs in chimichurri, such as parsley and oregano, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Supports digestion: The vinegar in chimichurri aids in digestion by stimulating the production of stomach acid.
How to Store Chimichurri Sauce
Chimichurri sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To extend its shelf life, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.
Creative Ways to Use Chimichurri Sauce
- Chimichurri Mayo: Mix chimichurri with mayonnaise to create a flavorful dressing for sandwiches or dips.
- Chimichurri Hummus: Add chimichurri to hummus for a tangy and herbaceous twist.
- Chimichurri Butter: Combine chimichurri with softened butter to create a flavorful compound butter that can be used on grilled meats or vegetables.
- Chimichurri Vinaigrette: Whisk chimichurri with olive oil and lemon juice to create a tangy and flavorful vinaigrette.
- Chimichurri Compound Oil: Infuse olive oil with chimichurri by heating them together and then refrigerating for several days. Use the infused oil for dressings, marinades, or finishing touches.
What You Need to Learn
1. What is the difference between chimichurri and salsa verde?
- Both chimichurri and salsa verde are green sauces made with fresh herbs, but chimichurri typically uses parsley and cilantro as its base, while salsa verde uses basil.
2. Can I substitute white wine vinegar for red wine vinegar?
- Yes, you can substitute white wine vinegar for red wine vinegar in chimichurri sauce. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
3. How long does chimichurri sauce last?
- Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, chimichurri sauce can last for up to 2 weeks.
4. Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?
- Yes, you can freeze chimichurri sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
5. What are some other uses for chimichurri sauce?
- Chimichurri sauce can be used as a marinade, dipping sauce, salad dressing, or topping for grilled meats, vegetables, and sandwiches.
