Uruguayan cuisine

Asado, a traditional Uruguayan barbecue

Uruguayan cuisine is a rich blend of Mediterranean influences, primarily from Spain and Italy, with a strong emphasis on beef and other meats. The country's culinary traditions reflect its history and cultural diversity, with a focus on simple, hearty dishes that highlight the quality of local ingredients.

Meat Dishes

Uruguay is renowned for its meat dishes, particularly beef, which is a staple in the Uruguayan diet. The most iconic of these is the asado, a traditional barbecue that is a social event as much as a meal.

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Parrillero Completo, a full grill of meats

• Asado: This is the quintessential Uruguayan barbecue, where various cuts of beef, pork, and sometimes chicken are grilled over an open flame. The asado is often accompanied by chimichurri, a sauce made from parsley, garlic, vinegar, and oil.

• Milanesa: A breaded and fried meat cutlet, similar to the Italian cotoletta. It is often served "a caballo" (on horseback) with a fried egg on top.

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Milanesa a Caballo, a breaded cutlet with a fried egg

• Chivito: A popular sandwich made with thin slices of beef, mozzarella, tomatoes, mayonnaise, and often bacon and eggs. It is considered a national dish of Uruguay.

Chivito, a traditional Uruguayan sandwich

• Matambre: A thin cut of beef, often stuffed and rolled, then grilled or roasted. It is commonly served with a side of Russian salad.

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Matambre con Rusa, a stuffed beef roll with Russian salad

Seafood

Although Uruguay is known for its beef, seafood also plays an important role in the diet, especially in coastal areas.

• Bacalao: Salted cod is a popular dish, often prepared in a tomato sauce.

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Bacalao en Salsa de Tomate, salted cod in tomato sauce

Vegetables and Sides

Vegetables are often served as side dishes or appetizers, complementing the meat-heavy main courses.

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Entradas Vegetales, vegetable appetizers

• Russian salad: A potato salad with peas, carrots, and mayonnaise, often served as a side dish.

Beverages

Uruguayans enjoy a variety of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

• Mate: A traditional South American drink made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant. It is consumed throughout the day and is a social activity.

• Wine: Uruguay has a growing wine industry, with Tannat being the most prominent grape variety.

Desserts

Uruguayan desserts often feature dulce de leche, a sweet caramel-like spread made from milk and sugar.

• Chajá: A dessert made with meringue, sponge cake, and peaches, often topped with whipped cream.

Related Pages

• Argentine cuisine
• Brazilian cuisine
• Paraguayan cuisine
• Chilean cuisine