If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about a steak sauce that can transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Argentina, look no further. Welcome to the world of chimichurri, the zesty, herbaceous sauce that steak lovers around the globe can’t get enough of. Today, I’m sharing the ultimate guide on “chimichurri how to make” it – a recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious. Trust me, once you try this, your steaks (and maybe even your life) will never be the same again.
The Story Behind the Recipe
Let me take you back to a lazy Sunday afternoon when I was visiting Argentine, an Argentine native and self-proclaimed chimichurri aficionado, decided it was time for me to learn the true essence of this beloved sauce. Picture this: a sunny backyard BBQ, the aroma of sizzling skirt steak in the air, and Pablo meticulously chopping fresh herbs like a culinary maestro. His eyes sparkled with excitement as he handed me a spoonful of his secret concoction. One taste, and I was hooked. Over the next few months, I tinkered with the recipe, adding a dash more of this and a bit less of that until I achieved what I believe to be the best chimichurri recipe out there.
Ingredients In This Recipe
- Fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley, leaves only, stems removed
- Fresh cilantro, leaves only, stems removed
- Fresh oregano, leaves only, stems removed
- Roughly chopped red onion or shallots
- Garlic, peeled
- Red pepper flakes
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Red wine vinegar
- Fresh lemon juice
- Kosher salt
Who Will Love This Recipe?
This chimichurri recipe is for everyone – from the steak connoisseur to the casual BBQ enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned griller looking to elevate your steak game or a newbie wanting to impress your guests with minimal effort, this sauce is your new best friend. Vegetarians, don’t fret! Chimichurri is equally divine on grilled vegetables, tofu, or even drizzled over a hearty grain bowl.
Ingredient Substitutions
No fresh oregano on hand? No problem! Dried oregano works in a pinch, though fresh is always best. If you’re cilantro-averse, simply swap it out for more parsley. Red onion can be substituted with shallots for a milder flavor. And if you’re out of red wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar will do the trick.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of chimichurri lies in its simplicity and balance. Fresh herbs bring a burst of vibrant flavor, while the red wine vinegar and lemon juice add the perfect tang. Extra-virgin olive oil ties everything together with its rich, smooth texture, and the red pepper flakes provide just the right amount of heat. This harmony of ingredients creates a sauce that’s fresh, bold, and utterly irresistible.
Best Chimichurri Sauce
Equipment
- Blender or Food Processor
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley leaves only, stems removed
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves only, stems removed
- ¼ cup fresh oregano leaves only, stems removed
- ⅓ cup roughly chopped red onion or shallots
- 3 cloves garlic peeled
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to the blender or food processor and pulse.
- Store in an airtight container. Serve with your favorite protein! Steak is the best option!
Frequently Asked Questions About Skirt Steak
- What is skirt steak?
Skirt steak is a long, thin cut of beef from the diaphragm muscles of the cow. It’s known for its rich flavor and is perfect for grilling. - How should I cook skirt steak?
Skirt steak is best cooked quickly over high heat, either on the grill or in a hot skillet. Aim for a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. - Do I need to marinate skirt steak?
While skirt steak is flavorful on its own, marinating it can enhance its tenderness and flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and citrus works wonders. - How do I slice skirt steak?
Always slice skirt steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. This means cutting perpendicular to the long muscle fibers.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – the best chimichurri recipe and everything you need to know about “chimichurri how to make” it. Whether you’re a die-hard steak fan or just someone who appreciates a great sauce, this chimichurri will become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and let me know how it transforms your next meal. And remember, when life gives you parsley, make chimichurri!
Make sure you pair this with one of my favorite cocktails! Also, like my Facebook page here. Happy cooking!
