Chimichurri: The Zesty Argentinian Must-Have for Your Grills

Chimichurri is a classic Argentinian sauce you can use to garnish any meal, especially grilled meat, fish, shrimp, or chicken. It’s a versatile condiment that goes with any meal, whether roasted potatoes or bread.

This aged green and tasty sauce originates from Argentina; however, you can find locals in Uruguay, Brazil, Paraguay, and Latin America garnishing chimichurri in various cuisines. 

Let’s get to the ingredients and the steps on how to prepare chimichurri.

How to Prepare Argentinian Chimichurri

Key Ingredients

• Fresh parsley, a handful: the green tasty herb is used to enhance the flavor of soups, meat, chicken and most meals. It’s rich in vitamins K, C, and A, including calcium that supports bone health. 
• A bulb of garlic cloves: is a good ingredient for your heart and blood flow.
• 2 tbsp dried oregano: This herb has a significant content of antioxidants which help fight bacteria, relieve inflammation, regulate blood sugar and lipids, and fight cancer. Oregano has compounds that may alleviate coughs. It may also aid digestion and combat certain bacteria viruses
• 2 bay leaves: These scented leaves give an aroma to any dish.
• 2 tbsp red chili peppers: hot or chili peppers give food a spicy feel. It also boosts your metabolism, helps digestion and curbs cravings. Chili peppers are an excellent source of maintaining blood pressure.
• 45 milligrams of extra virgin olive oil: This unique oil has properties that help lower cholesterol, improve brain health, and reduce the risk of stroke and heart diseases.
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar: an important ingredient that helps the chimichurri to marinate, resulting in a hearty sauce.
• 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper 
• Salt to taste 

READ ALSO: Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Skewers Recipe – Grilled Perfection

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Separate the parsley leaves from the stems with your hand. Finely chop the parsley on a chopping board. Transfer it to a clean ceramic bowl. 
2. Peel the garlic, wash it, and grate it. You can use a grater or microplane depending on what you have.
3. Add the oregano to the parsley and garlic.
4. Then sprinkle in the red chili peppers. You can reduce the volume of the chilies if you don’t want them spicy. Add in extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. 
5. Mix the chimichurri using a spoon thoroughly.
6. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to taste and add the black pepper. 
7. Shred the bay leaves into pieces and add them to the chimichurri.
8. Mix it well and let it rest for a few hours to allow the ingredients to settle.
9. You can leave the condiment for 24 to 48 hours for added advantage. 
10. Cover the bowl with a clean film and refrigerate overnight or for two days. 
11. Use the chimichurri to garnish your grilled meat, chicken, shrimp, pork, or roasted potatoes.
12. Enjoy!

Tips for Preparing Chimichurri

• It’s okay to use the parsley whole, that is, without separating the stems from the leaves. If you choose to separate the parsley leaves from the stem, set the stems aside and use them for stock later.
• You can add more red chili pepper depending on how hot you like it.
• If you want to have chimichurri right away after preparing it, you can add a few tablespoons of lukewarm water before adding the vinegar and olive oil. This helps your condiment settle and hydrate.
• It’s best to refrigerate the chimichurri for a few days to marinate so the ingredients can flavor.

READ ALSO: Savory Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide

Conclusion

While chimichurri originates from Argentina, it’s a global favorite sauce to garnish your grilled meat, chicken, and roasted meals anytime. It’s more valuable during family gatherings or when you’re hosting loved ones.

Make time and prepare this spicy side dish, and you’ll be the star of the party!

Merry Christmas!