Summer is an excellent time to try out new things. And while you may get to go on vacation and learn how to deep sea dive or take up a brand-new hobby such as hiking or mountain climbing, it is also fun time to try out new foods, especially dishes that have a fiery south-of-the-border flavor. For your next summer dinner party, try out one or two of these delicious Chilean main dishes that will surely keep your guests coming back for more.
Churrascos
Also known as Chilean steak sandwiches, is a dish that you can serve in a variety of ways, much like the classic American hamburger. You can enjoy a simple sandwich with steak and fresh tomatoes or you can add a guacamole-style spread made with mashed avocados, a pinch of salt, and olive oil.
To create a Chilean steak sandwich with the works, you will need to add mayonnaise, tomato, avocado, and sauerkraut. Some like to include cheese, onions, ketchup, and mustard as well. Experiment with different toppings to find out which you enjoy most on your Churrasco.
Completo
You can find this handheld treat on the street corners and in farmers markets all throughout Chile. Also known as the “Chilean Hot Dog,” the complete is traditionally served with mayonnaise, tomatoes, pickles, sauerkraut, and onions. The hot dogs used are much larger than those here in the United States, so you may want to use bratwurst when preparing your completos. Another variation of the completo, known as “the Italiano,” may be topped with avocado, tomatoes, and mayonnaise.
Picanha
Picanha is a cut of beef known as sirloin cap in the United States. In countries like Chile and Brazil, they cook the meat along with the fat and then remove the fat when it is ready to serve. Doing so gives the meat its amazing flavor.
To prepare traditional Chilean barbecue, you will want to coat the beef with coarse salt and allow it to sit for around 30 minutes before cooking it over an open fire. Serve with salad, potatoes, or caramelized onions.
Cazuela
This aromatic Chilean chicken stew is the ideal comfort food served as a main dish. The traditional recipe contains potatoes, pumpkin, corn, wild herbs, quinoa, red peppers, and green beans along with chili peppers and poultry. You will want to have a good, quality stock on hand to prepare this meal. Cazuela, or “Corri,” can also be served on top of cooked pasta or rice to create a complete meal.
Typical Chilean cuisine such as these dishes is known for containing plenty of meat such as chicken or beef. For side dishes, you may want to serve potatoes, vegetables, and rice along with your entrees.
For dessert, you could serve chilled fruit or try a traditional Chilean favorite such as tres leches cake, which is a sponge cake made with evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream, leche asada, or kuchen. Top off your meal with some of the best wines from Chile such as Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, or Cabernet Sauvignon for a complete meal that is sure to delight your party guests.