Uruguayan cuisine is a celebration of simplicity, high-quality ingredients, and the rich flavors that originate from its deep-rooted grilling traditions. One of the most beloved aspects of the country’s gastronomy is its “asado”, a ritual of grilling meats over an open flame that showcases Uruguayan mastery of beef. Uruguay, a country with a long history of cattle farming and a climate conducive to raising grass-fed livestock, has earned an enviable reputation in the global culinary scene for its premium beef. The “Uruguayan Beef and Chimichurri Slider” draws inspiration from this heritage, fusing the essence of asado with the zesty brightness of chimichurri—a quintessential condiment in South American cuisine.
The star of this recipe is, of course, the beef. Patting together ground beef to create juicy, flavorful patties pays homage to the “asado tradition”, where simplicity is key to elevating the natural taste of the meat. When cooking the beef, it’s essential to let the quality of the meat speak for itself, seasoning it lightly with kosher salt and black pepper. The added slice of provolone cheese introduces a smoky, creamy element, complementing the savory depth of the beef.
What sets these sliders apart is the “chimichurri sauce”, a vibrantly herbaceous and tangy condiment that brings the dish to life. Originating in Argentina and Uruguay, chimichurri is traditionally served alongside grilled meats, lending a burst of freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the beef. In this recipe, a combination of “flat-leaf parsley”, “oregano”, “minced garlic”, “red wine vinegar”, and “extra-virgin olive oil” forms the base of the sauce. A hint of red chili flakes gives it a subtle, warming kick. Chimichurri’s raw ingredients are meant to meld together but retain their fresh character, providing a perfect balance of flavors—earthy, garlicky, acidic, and just the right touch of heat.
The slider format introduces a playful, contemporary twist to this Uruguayan-inspired dish. Nestled between soft brioche or slider buns, these bite-sized creations are as approachable as they are luxurious. The buns are lightly toasted for a warm, golden exterior, offering a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender beef and the luscious chimichurri sauce.
These sliders are not purely about flavor, but also about embracing the cultural significance of “shared meals and community”. In Uruguay, asados are social gatherings where friends and family convene to enjoy grilled meats and lively conversations. Similarly, these sliders are perfect for casual entertaining—whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a game-day spread, or an intimate dinner.
For those looking to customize the sliders even further, a squeeze of lime juice added to the chimichurri can elevate the flavors. And for those seeking a low-carb option, these sliders work wonderfully when substituted with crisp lettuce leaves instead of buns.
In essence, the “Uruguayan Beef and Chimichurri Slider” is a love letter to Uruguay’s culinary traditions. It seamlessly brings together the bold simplicity of their grilling culture and the vivacious charm of chimichurri. With just a few simple ingredients and a commitment to quality, these sliders deliver big, punchy flavors in every bite, capturing the heart of South America’s cuisine in the palm of your hands.
Uruguayan Beef and Chimichurri Slider
Ingredients
Sliders
- 500 grams ground beef preferably grass-fed
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 medium slider buns soft or brioche
- 4 slices provolone cheese
Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup flat-leaf parsley finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh oregano finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes adjust to taste
- 1 pinch salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chimichurri: In a bowl, combine the chopped parsley, oregano, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and chili flakes. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the sliders.
- Make the Beef Patties: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef with salt and black pepper. Divide into four equal parts, forming into small patties about the size of your buns.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked to your liking (internal temperature should reach 70°C / 160°F for medium). In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of provolone cheese on each patty and allow it to melt.
- Toast the Buns: Meanwhile, halve the slider buns and lightly toast them on the grill until they are golden brown.
- Assemble the Sliders: Place a melted cheese-topped patty on each bun base. Top generously with chimichurri sauce and finish with the bun lid. Serve immediately.