Wild chimichurri is a flavorful Argentinean sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and oil. It is a versatile sauce that can be used as a marinade, a topping, or a dipping sauce. Wild chimichurri has a tangy and herbaceous flavor that makes it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, vegetables, or bread. In this blog post, we will explore the origins of wild chimichurri, different ways of making it, and its cultural significance.
Origins of Wild Chimichurri
Wild chimichurri sauce is believed to have originated in Argentina and Uruguay in the 19th century, where it was traditionally served with grilled meats, specifically asado (a type of barbecue). The name “chimichurri” is thought to have come from the Basque word “tximitxurri,” which means “a mixture of several things in no particular order.”
Different Ways of Making Wild Chimichurri
Wild chimichurri is a simple sauce that can be made with just a few ingredients. However, there are many variations of chimichurri, and the recipe can vary depending on the region and personal preference. The basic ingredients of chimichurri include fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, and oil. Some recipes also include fresh oregano, red pepper flakes, or lemon juice.
This is the perfect thing to chuck a vast range of different wild ingredients, which will give it its’ own unique flavour depending on where you are in the country.
Here’s a recipe for wild chimichurri:
There’s a multitude of ways to make this but we’ll stick with one of my favourites 🙂
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, packed
- 1 tablespoon blended wild garlic
- 8 tops of nettle blended
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup wild arugula leaves
Instructions:
- Finely chop the parsley, garlic, and wild arugula leaves, and place them in a medium-sized bowl.
- Add the red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cultural Significance of Chimichurri
Chimichurri is an important part of Argentinean culture, and it is often served with asado (barbecue). In Argentina, asado is not just a meal, it’s a social event that brings together friends and family. Chimichurri is an essential component of the asado experience and is often used as a condiment to enhance the flavor of the grilled meats.
Chimichurri has also gained popularity outside of Argentina and is now a popular sauce in many other countries, including the United States. It’s a healthy alternative to other condiments, such as ketchup or mayo, and is packed with flavor.
In conclusion, wild chimichurri is a delicious Argentinean sauce that is easy to make and adds flavor to any dish. It has a rich history and cultural significance in Argentina, where it is a staple at asados. Whether you use it as a marinade, topping, or dipping sauce, it’s a versatile and tasty addition to any meal.