Easy Churrasco Sandwich
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Ingredients
- 1 lb churrasco steak skirt or flank steak
- 4 sandwich rolls ciabatta or baguette
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup chimichurri sauce
- 1 large tomato sliced
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced
- 1 cup lettuce leaves romaine or arugula
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Season steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Lightly oil grill or grill pan with vegetable oil.
- Grill steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare.
- Remove steak from grill and let rest on cutting board for 5 minutes.
- Slice sandwich rolls in half using a serrated knife.
- Spread mayonnaise on bottom half of each roll.
- Thinly slice rested steak against the grain and divide among sandwiches.
- Top steak with chimichurri sauce.
- Layer tomato slices, red onion, and lettuce leaves on top of chimichurri sauce.
- Close sandwiches with top half of rolls and serve immediately.
Nutrition
You may be wondering, what could possibly make an ordinary sandwich so extraordinary that it deserves to be called Easy Churrasco Sandwich? Well, my food-loving friends, this is not just any sandwich. This mouthwatering creation is inspired by the tantalizing flavors of traditional Brazilian churrasco, a beloved method of grilling meat over an open flame. Imagine tender, juicy slices of steak, seasoned with a perfect blend of spices, tucked between toasted bread with a garlicky chimichurri sauce. Need we say more? If you’re looking to elevate your sandwich game or simply want to try something new and delicious, look no further!
But wait, there’s more! Not only is this sandwich incredible in taste, it’s also a breeze to make, which means you can impress your friends and family with your culinary prowess without breaking a sweat. With this recipe, you’ll learn how to perfectly cook and season your steak, and whip up an amazing chimichurri sauce in no time. So why not bring a little bit of Brazil into your kitchen and give this Easy Churrasco Sandwich a try in the next section? It’s time to say adeus to boring sandwiches and olá to a world of delicious flavors!
Yield & Servings
Makes 4 sandwiches
Ingredients
1 lb churrasco steak (skirt or flank steak)
4 sandwich rolls (such as ciabatta or baguette)
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup chimichurri sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 large tomato, sliced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup lettuce leaves (such as romaine or arugula)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Notable Equipment & Tools
Grill or grill pan
Meat thermometer
Cutting board
Serrated knife
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
All ingredients ready? Let’s begin!
Step 2: Season Churrasco Steak with Salt and Pepper
Season the churrasco steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 3: Oil the Grill or Grill Pan
Lightly oil the grill or grill pan with vegetable oil to prevent the steak from sticking.
Step 4: Grill Steak to Desired Doneness
Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time if you prefer your steak more well-done.
Step 5: Rest Steak After Grilling
Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender, juicy steak.
Step 6: Slice Sandwich Rolls
While the steak is resting, slice the sandwich rolls in half using a serrated knife.
Step 7: Spread Mayonnaise on Rolls
Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each roll.
Step 8: Slice and Divide Steak for Sandwiches
Thinly slice the rested steak against the grain and divide it evenly among the 4 sandwiches.
Step 9: Top Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Top the steak with a generous spoonful of chimichurri sauce.
Step 10: Add Tomato, Onion, and Lettuce to Sandwiches
Layer the tomato slices, red onion, and lettuce leaves on top of the chimichurri sauce.
Step 11: Close Sandwiches and Serve
Close the sandwiches with the top half of the rolls and serve immediately.
Step 12: Enjoy your delicious and easy churrasco sandwich!
Substitutions & Alternatives
Fear not, home chefs! This tasty churrasco sandwich recipe is flexible enough to accommodate various ingredient swaps and modifications. Let’s dive in and explore some scrumptious alternatives that will have you feeling like a culinary genius.
- Meat: While churrasco traditionally features skirt or flank steak, you can easily substitute other cuts like flat iron or sirloin steak for a similar flavor profile. If you’re looking to mix things up, try using grilled chicken, pork tenderloin, or even portobello mushrooms for a meat-free twist.
- Bread: Can’t find ciabatta or baguette? No problem! Swap in your favorite sandwich roll or even a hearty sliced bread. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold all those delicious toppings without falling apart. You could also go global by using a Mexican bolillo or Argentinean marraqueta.
- Sauce: Chimichurri is a wonderful concoction of herbs, garlic, vinegar, and oil, but if you’re feeling adventurous (or just can’t find it at the store), try substituting with a pesto sauce, salsa verde, or even a zesty Greek tzatziki. The world is your oyster when it comes to sauces – or should we say, the world is your chimichurri?
- Veggies: Customize your sandwich with a garden of fresh alternatives! Swap out the tomato, red onion, and lettuce for layers of avocado, pickled vegetables (think giardiniera), or roasted bell peppers. Your taste buds will thank you for the exciting flavor journey.
- Oil: If you don’t have vegetable oil on hand, don’t let it stop you from grilling up a storm. Olive oil, canola oil, or avocado oil can be used to oil the grill or grill pan, ensuring a non-stick experience for your juicy steak.
Now that you’re armed with an arsenal of substitutions and alternatives, go forth and create the churrasco sandwich of your dreams! Remember, the best recipes are often born from experimentation, so don’t be afraid to mix it up and try new combinations. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating
Now, we know you’ll be tempted to devour every last morsel of these mouthwatering churrasco sandwiches, but if you find yourself with leftovers (kudos on your self-control), here’s the lowdown on how to store and reheat them for future feasting.
First things first – let’s embrace our inner sandwich scientists and deconstruct these flavor-packed beauties for optimal storage. Store the cooked steak, chimichurri sauce, and veggies separately in airtight containers. This will keep the bread from getting soggy, and the ingredients will maintain their scrumptious freshness. You can store the steak and chimichurri sauce in the fridge for 3-4 days, while the veggies can be kept fresh for up to a week.
When hunger strikes again, and you’re ready to reassemble your sandwich masterpiece, it’s time for a quick and easy reheating session. To reheat the steak, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thinly sliced steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil (for easy clean-up), and warm it in the oven for about 5 minutes or until it reaches your desired temperature.
While the steak sizzles away, channel your inner sandwich artist and prep your bread by spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each roll. Once the steak is warmed, layer it onto the rolls and top it with a generous spoonful of chimichurri sauce. Add your tomato, onion, and lettuce, and voilà! Your churrasco sandwich has been reborn, ready for you to enjoy once again.
Pro tip: For an extra touch of culinary brilliance, consider toasting your sandwich rolls in the oven for a couple of minutes before assembling. This will add a delightful crunch to your sandwich, further enhancing the chorus of flavors and textures that make this dish a global treasure.
So go ahead, embrace the power of proper storage and reheating, and get ready to experience churrasco sandwich bliss all over again! Happy (re)feasting!
Serving Ideas
- Seize the day with a South American picnic: Pack these scrumptious churrasco sandwiches, a refreshing pitcher of sangria or lemonade, and head to your favorite park or beach. These sandwiches will transport you and your loved ones to the vibrant streets of Argentina while soaking up some sun and fresh air.
- Give your sandwich a cheesy twist: For a more indulgent version, consider melting a slice of provolone or pepper jack cheese on top of the steak as it rests. The gooey, melted cheese will add a rich, creamy element that complements the zesty chimichurri sauce and tangy red onions.
- Make it a full-blown fiesta with Latin-inspired sides: Serve your churrasco sandwiches with a side of warm, crispy yuca fries or a refreshing mixed greens salad with avocado, corn, and black beans. This will not only inject some healthy nutrients into your meal but also honor the culinary heritage of South America.
- Upgrade your bread game: While ciabatta and baguettes are great choices, consider using a local artisanal bread or even a soft pretzel roll to elevate your sandwich experience. Experiment with different types of bread to discover new flavor and texture combinations that excite your taste buds.
- Turn it into a sharing platter: Transform your churrasco sandwich into a fun, interactive DIY sandwich bar. Arrange the sliced steak, chimichurri sauce, and veggies on a beautiful platter alongside a basket of various rolls. Invite your guests to build their own sandwiches, encouraging them to get creative with their combinations and toppings.
No matter how you choose to serve your churrasco sandwiches, you’ll be celebrating the bold flavors and rich heritage of South American cuisine while creating a memorable and delicious meal. So go ahead, don your chef’s hat, and let your inner gaucho shine!
Variations & Customization
Churrasco sandwiches are highly customizable, and with a few simple tweaks, they can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and restrictions. Let’s explore some popular variations that cater to different diets, all while preserving the vibrant flavors of this delicious sandwich.
- Vegan: Swap the churrasco steak for a marinated and grilled portobello mushroom or a plant-based steak alternative such as seitan. Use vegan mayonnaise to maintain that creamy element in the sandwich, and ensure your chimichurri sauce is free from any animal-derived ingredients.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free sandwich rolls or convert your churrasco sandwich into a salad by skipping the bread altogether and serving the steak, veggies, and chimichurri sauce on a bed of greens. You can also try using lettuce leaves as a wrap or sandwiching the steak and veggies between two grilled slices of sweet potato for a unique twist.
- GAPS/AIP: To make your churrasco sandwich GAPS and AIP-friendly, skip the sandwich roll and use lettuce leaves as a wrap instead. Replace the mayonnaise with extra-virgin olive oil or avocado, and make sure your chimichurri sauce is made with compliant ingredients, such as fresh herbs, olive oil, garlic, and apple cider vinegar.
- Keto: For a keto-friendly version, ditch the sandwich roll and use lettuce leaves as a wrap or serve the churrasco steak over a bed of greens. Swap the mayonnaise for a high-fat option like full-fat sour cream or cream cheese, and ensure your chimichurri sauce is made with keto-friendly ingredients.
- Additional Toppings: If you’re looking to amp up the flavor even further, consider adding some grilled bell peppers, avocado slices, or crumbled feta cheese to your churrasco sandwich. You can also swap the lettuce for other leafy greens like spinach or kale.
- Global Culinary Heritage: Embrace the sandwich’s Argentine roots by adding a slice of provolone cheese, a popular topping in Argentine sandwiches known as lomitos. Alternatively, you can celebrate the sandwich’s Brazilian origins by adding some traditional Brazilian vinaigrette salsa made with tomatoes, onions, vinegar, and cilantro.
Feel empowered to mix and match these variations to create your perfect churrasco sandwich while accommodating any dietary restrictions or preferences. Bon appétit!
Notes & Tips
- Choose your steak wisely: Churrasco sandwiches are traditionally made with skirt or flank steak, both of which have a robust beefy flavor and chewy texture. If you want a more tender option, you can try swapping in ribeye steak or New York strip steak. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
- The magic of marination: Give your steak some extra love by marinating it in the chimichurri sauce for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours before grilling. This will not only infuse the meat with the vibrant flavors of the sauce but also help tenderize it, thanks to the acidity of the vinegar.
- Bread matters: While ciabatta and baguette both have their fans, you can also experiment with other types of bread for your sandwich. A soft and slightly sweet brioche bun will add an interesting contrast to the bold flavors, while a crusty and rustic sourdough loaf will provide a pleasant tang.
- Get creative with toppings: Feel free to customize your churrasco sandwich with additional toppings such as avocado, roasted bell peppers, or even a fried egg for a breakfast-inspired twist. The possibilities are endless!
- Don’t fear the thermometer: If you’re unsure about the doneness of your steak, use a meat thermometer to take the guesswork out of it. Insert it into the thickest part of the steak and aim for 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium, or 150°F for well-done.
- Slice it right: When slicing your steak, make sure to cut against the grain, which means cutting across the fibers of the meat. This will make each bite more tender and easier to chew. Additionally, using a sharp serrated knife will make the slicing process smoother.
- Give it a rest: Allowing your steak to rest after cooking is a critical step that helps retain its juiciness. Be patient and resist the temptation to cut into it immediately, or you might end up with a dry sandwich.
- Time-saving tip: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought chimichurri sauce instead of making your own. However, for the best flavor, we recommend trying a homemade version at least once – it’s easier to make than you might think!
- A trip around the world: Churrasco sandwiches are a popular street food in South America, particularly in Argentina and Uruguay. As you enjoy your sandwich, take a moment to appreciate the culinary heritage that inspired this delicious dish.
- Share the love: This recipe makes four sandwiches, which are perfect for feeding a small crowd or sharing with friends and family. Pair your churrasco sandwiches with a nice cold beverage and some good company for a truly memorable meal experience.
Common Mistakes
Choosing the wrong cut of meat: Churrasco typically uses skirt or flank steak, which are both tender and flavorful when cooked correctly. Opting for a tougher cut may result in a chewy and less enjoyable sandwich experience. Make sure to choose a high-quality, well-marbled cut of skirt or flank steak for the best results.
Overcooking the steak: Churrasco steak is best enjoyed medium-rare (130°F internal temperature) to retain its tenderness and juiciness. Overcooking the steak risks making it dry and tough. Keep an eye on your grill and use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge the internal temperature.
Not letting the steak rest: It may be tempting to dig into that tantalizing steak straight off the grill, but allowing it to rest for 5 minutes redistributes the juices and ensures a tender, succulent bite. Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to churrasco steak!
Slicing the steak with the grain: Slicing against the grain is essential for maintaining the tenderness of your steak. Cutting with the grain may result in chewy, stringy meat that’s difficult to bite through. For a melt-in-your-mouth churrasco sandwich, always slice against the grain.
Overloading the sandwich with toppings: A churrasco sandwich is all about the perfect balance of flavors and textures. While it’s tempting to add every topping under the sun, sticking to the classic combination of chimichurri sauce, tomato, red onion, and lettuce ensures each component shines in every bite.
Not toasting the bread: Toasting the sandwich rolls adds a delightful crunch and helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy under the weight of the juicy steak and toppings. Give your rolls a quick toast on the grill or in the oven for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Skimping on the chimichurri sauce: This vibrant, herbaceous sauce is the star of the show, imparting a tangy, garlicky kick that perfectly complements the rich, smoky flavors of the churrasco steak. Don’t be shy with the chimichurri – a generous spoonful on each sandwich ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’re well on your way to crafting the ultimate churrasco sandwich. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and prepare to impress your taste buds and your friends with your newfound sandwich-making prowess!
Health Risks & Benefits
In the grand culinary world, the churrasco sandwich has earned its place as a delightful meal hailing from South America. But let’s take a moment to celebrate its health-conscious aspects, as well as acknowledge some risks to keep in mind.
Firstly, the churrasco steak itself is a great source of protein, iron, and essential amino acids. Skirt or flank steak, which are the prime cuts for this recipe, are also considered lean meats, meaning they have less saturated fat compared to other cuts. So, you can flex those muscles with pride after each bite!
Then, there’s the glorious chimichurri sauce, a flavor sensation packed with antioxidants, thanks to its blend of fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro. Plus, the garlic in the sauce is known for its heart-healthy properties. It’s like a little green superpower slathered onto your sandwich.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – mayonnaise. Yes, we know it’s not the healthiest condiment, but fear not! You can substitute it with Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise to reduce the calorie and fat content. See, problem solved!
As for the veggies, they not only add a burst of color but also provide essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, fiber, and potassium. So, don’t shy away from piling on those tomato slices and lettuce leaves!
It’s important to mention that consuming undercooked meat may pose a risk for foodborne illnesses. To avoid this, make sure to cook the steak to an internal temperature of at least 130°F for medium-rare.
In conclusion, the churrasco sandwich is not just a tasty treat, but also offers some noteworthy health benefits. With a few mindful tweaks, you can create a well-balanced, nutritious meal that will leave you feeling satisfied, empowered, and ready to conquer the kitchen (and the world!). Cheers to that!
Recipe History & Context
Sink your teeth into the scrumptious world of the churrasco sandwich, a culinary gem hailing from the vibrant lands of Latin America! With its origins in the region’s rich barbecue traditions, this hearty and flavor-packed sandwich has conquered taste buds across the globe.
Churrasco, the star ingredient of our sandwich, refers to the style of grilling meat that’s popular in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. This mouthwatering method of cooking can be traced back to the gauchos (South American cowboys) who roamed the Pampas plains, grilling their trusty steeds’ meat over an open flame.
Fast forward to the present day, and the churrasco sandwich has evolved into a beloved lunchtime staple, enjoyed in a variety of breads and topped with a medley of fresh veggies. The pièce de résistance, however, is the zesty chimichurri sauce. This Argentinian condiment, a blend of parsley, garlic, vinegar, and oil, truly ties the whole sandwich together with its tangy kick.
One fun fact to impress your friends while munching on these delectable churrasco sandwiches: chimichurri sauce gets its quirky name from the Basque term tximitxurri, meaning a mixture of several things in no particular order. How delightfully chaotic!
So, the next time you fire up the grill for these tasty churrasco sandwiches, remember you’re partaking in a culinary tradition that spans continents and centuries. With each delectable bite, you’re paying homage to the humble gauchos who first seared their steaks over open flames, and the countless chefs and home cooks who have since perfected the art of the churrasco sandwich. ¡Buen provecho!
Common Questions
Absolutely! While churrasco steak (skirt or flank steak) is traditional in many South American cuisines, feel free to swap it out with your favorite cut of beef. Just keep in mind that different cuts may require different cooking times, so adjust accordingly and use a meat thermometer to ensure your steak reaches the desired doneness.
Of course! If mayonnaise isn’t your thing, you can easily substitute it with another condiment like mustard, sour cream, or even a little more chimichurri sauce. Feel free to get creative and use your favorite sandwich spread that complements the flavors of the churrasco and chimichurri.
Yes, you can! Homemade chimichurri sauce is easy to make and tastes even better than store-bought. Simply blend together fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes in a food processor or blender. Season with salt and pepper, and you’ve got a delicious, homemade chimichurri in just minutes.
No worries! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can easily cook your steak on the stovetop using a grill pan or heavy skillet. Follow the same cooking instructions in the recipe, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can sear the steak on the stovetop and then finish cooking it in a preheated oven at 350°F until it reaches the desired internal temperature.
Definitely! For a vegetarian/vegan version of this delicious sandwich, you can replace the churrasco steak with a hearty grilled vegetable like portobello mushrooms, eggplant, or even thick slices of tofu. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and temperature to suit your chosen veggie/ingredient. Also, be sure to use a vegan mayonnaise or other suitable spread to keep it completely plant-based.
