The Choripán is one of Argentina’s most beloved street foods, often enjoyed at soccer matches, outdoor barbecues (asados), and bustling markets. It’s a simple yet flavorful sandwich made with grilled chorizo sausage tucked inside a crusty bread roll, usually topped with the famous chimichurri sauce. Its smoky, tangy, and savory taste captures the true spirit of Argentine grilling traditions.
Ingredient
| Beef Chorizo Links | 4 |
|---|---|
| Crusty Baguette or Rolls | 4 (about 6 inches each) |
| Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley | 1 cup (packed) |
| Dried Oregano | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| White Distilled Vinegar | 3 tablespoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | ½ cup (120ml) |
| Crushed Red Pepper Flakes | ½ teaspoon (or to taste) |
| Salt and Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon (each) |
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Make the Chimichurri Sauce (Can be made ahead)
- In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, dried oregano, minced garlic, white distilled vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Slowly whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until the sauce is well-combined and emulsified.
- Let the sauce sit at room temperature for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully meld.
Step 2: Grill the Chorizo
- Preheat your grill or a heavy skillet/griddle to medium heat.
- Cook the beef chorizo links for 15-20 minutes, turning them every few minutes until they are cooked through and browned on all sides.
- Once cooked, slice each chorizo link in half lengthwise (butterfly them).
Step 3: Prepare and Toast the Bread
- Slice the baguettes or rolls lengthwise, but not all the way through.
- Lightly toast the cut sides of the bread on the grill or griddle for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crunchy.
Step 4: Assemble the Choripán
- Place the butterflied beef chorizo inside the toasted roll.
- Spoon a generous amount of the fresh Chimichurri Sauce directly over the chorizo. The sauce should fall into the crack of the roll.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Choripán immediately while the sausage is hot.
Extra Tips for a Perfect Choripán
- The Sausage Prep: Splitting the sausage in half allows for maximum surface area to get crispy on the grill and provides a better surface for holding the Chimichurri.
- The Bread: A crusty bread is essential. The interior should be soft, but the crust must be firm enough to withstand the juicy sausage and oily sauce.
- Spice Level: Chimichurri should have a slight kick. Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to achieve your desired spice level.
Nutritional Value
Approximate (per sandwich)
| Calories | 600-800 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 30-45 grams |
| Fat | 40-60 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 40-55 grams |
| Fiber | 3-5 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ Bold Flavors: Juicy chorizo paired with zesty chimichurri for an unforgettable bite.
- ✅ Protein-Packed: A hearty sandwich that keeps you full and energized.
- ✅ Street Food Classic: Quick, affordable, and authentic to Argentina’s food culture.
- ✅ Versatile: Can be enjoyed plain, with sauces, or even with added vegetables.
- ✅ Cultural Icon: A must-try dish that reflects Argentina’s passion for grilling.
The Choripán is more than just a sandwich—it’s an Argentine culinary icon that combines simplicity with rich flavor. Whether eaten fresh off the grill at an asado or from a street vendor after a lively soccer match, this smoky and satisfying sandwich delivers a true taste of Argentina in every bite.