In tango houses in Buenos Aires, the cuisine served typically reflects Argentina’s rich culinary tradition. Of course meat. The meat is essencial in Argentina.
The significant beef production determines that it is the most consumed meat in the country. Argentina is one of the countries with the highest per capita consumption of meat in general and beef in particular, a situation that has not undergone significant changes over time. A typical Argentine meal is the asado or parrillada (beef and offal cooked over coals), as well as empanadas (kind of pastries filled with meat or other ingredients). Additionally, the consumption of a chorizo sandwich, called choripán, is very common.
The “Bife de Chorizo”
If you want to try the best quality meat, here’s what you may not yet know about this must-try dish in the southern country’s gastronomy. And it´s a great great option during a Dinner Tango Show.
It has nothing to do with sausage. If it’s the first time you hear or read the name on the menu, you probably imagine it has something to do with the sausage, but it doesn’t. Bife de chorizo is a cut of meat, one theory explaining its name is the elongated and slightly cylindrical shape the meat takes when sliced.
The cut is found in the loin part of the animal; subsequently, the meat is cut into steaks that are slightly triangular in shape. Bife de chorizo consists of a large piece of meat covered with a layer of fat; this layer, when cooked on the grill, is what gives it its special flavor in cooking.
Bife de chorizo is tender due to the great marbling it presents; it does not require a large amount of seasonings, a little coarse salt will be enough to enhance its incredible flavor. It is a juicy cut that is recommended to be accompanied by potatoes or salads. If you want to taste one of the best combinations, order a bottle of the typical Malbec. It would be perfect.
In Argentina, breeders are concerned with having the best quality meat. Bife de chorizo is undoubtedly one of the most representative cuts of its gastronomy; there are specialized farms in its production.
Chicken, Pasta and Vegetarian options
While tango houses in Buenos Aires are known for their delicious meat dishes (and meat is very very important), they also often offer a variety of non-meat options to cater to different dietary preferences. Bruschetas, Saladas, Fish and also vegetarian options will be available always. And of course the Pasta! Argentina has a very strong relation with the italian gastronomy so you will find also excellent pasta dishes.
Check the following list of typical dishes that can be found on the menus of these tango houses:
- Asado: A selection of grilled meat cuts, such as sirloin steak (entraña), ribs, and blood sausage (chorizo negro) and Bife de Chorizo
- Empanadas: Delicious pastries filled with meat, chicken, ham and cheese, or vegetables, wrapped in dough and baked or fried.
- Milanesas: Breaded and fried steaks, usually served with French fries or mashed potatoes.
- Pastas: Traditional pasta dishes like ravioli, gnocchi, or fettuccine, with a variety of sauces such as bolognese sauce, tomato sauce, or Alfredo sauce.
- Parrillada: A selection of grilled meats that may include chorizo, blood sausage, sweetbreads, kidneys, and more.
- Salads: Fresh salad varieties, such as mixed salad, caprese salad, or Caesar salad.
- Desserts: Sweet delights like flan, dulce de leche, ice cream, or the classic Argentine dessert, alfajor.
These are just some examples of the cuisine typically served in tango houses in Buenos Aires. Menus may vary depending on the venue and the type of gastronomic experience you wish to enjoy. Check the menú in each option you can find.
