How to Make the Perfect Classic Argentine Asado
Argentine · Medium · 150 min · 6 servings
A traditional Argentine barbecue featuring slow-grilled beef ribs and cuts over wood or charcoal fire. The secret lies in low and slow cooking that renders the fat and creates an irresistible smoky crust.
Why this recipe works
This Classic Argentine Asado recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 150 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 680 calories with 55g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 3 kg beef short ribs
- 1 kg beef flank steak
- 2 tbsp coarse sea salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 4 pieces wood logs or charcoal
- 2 tbsp chimichurri sauce
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fire
Light your wood or charcoal at least 45 minutes before cooking. Allow the flames to die down completely so you are cooking over glowing embers with consistent heat, not open flame.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Pat the beef ribs and flank steak dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with coarse sea salt and black pepper. Do not over-season as the quality of the beef is meant to shine.
Step 3: Grill Low and Slow
Place the ribs bone side down on the grill over indirect heat. Cook for 90 minutes, turning only once at the halfway mark. Add the flank steak in the final 20 minutes over direct heat.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Remove meat from the grill and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with chimichurri sauce on the side and crusty bread.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- beef short ribs → pork ribs for a slightly sweeter flavor profile
- wood logs → high-quality charcoal briquettes if wood is unavailable
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Cooking over open flames instead of waiting for embers which burns the outside and leaves the inside raw
- Flipping the meat too often which prevents a proper crust from forming
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 680 calories, 55g protein, 0g carbs, 48g fat, 0g fiber.
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