Chivito Melt

Introduction to Chivito Melt

The Chivito Melt is a famous sandwich originating from Uruguay, known for its hearty and delicious layers of ingredients. Originally invented in the 1940s by entrepreneur Antonio Carbonaro, the Chivito is a staple in Uruguayan cuisine. Traditionally, it is a sandwich filled with tender grilled beef, ham, cheese, and a variety of other toppings. The Chivito Melt is a warm and cheesy variation of this classic dish, perfect for satisfying your hunger or impressing your friends and family with its rich flavors and textures.

Ingredients

1. Beef Tenderloin - 1 pound
2. Ham - 4 slices
3. Cheese (Mozzarella or Provolone) - 4 slices
4. Tomato - 2, sliced
5. Lettuce - 4 leaves
6. Mayonnaise - 4 tablespoons
7. Mustard - 2 teaspoons
8. Eggs - 2, fried
9. Bacon - 4 slices, cooked
10. Bread (Ciabatta or Baguette) - 2 large buns
11. Butter - 2 tablespoons, softened
12. Olive Oil - 1 tablespoon
13. Salt - to taste
14. Black Pepper - to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Ingredients

Before you begin assembling your Chivito Melt, it's essential to prepare all the ingredients for easy access during the cooking process. Slice the tomatoes and wash the lettuce leaves thoroughly. Set them aside. You should also have your mayonnaise and mustard ready, as these will add flavor to the sandwich.

2. Cooking the Beef Tenderloin

Season the beef tenderloin with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef tenderloin and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

3. Preparing the Egg and Bacon

While the beef rests, fry the eggs in a non-stick skillet until they are cooked sunny side up. Cook the bacon in the same skillet until crispy. Set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess grease.

4. Assembling the Chivito Melt

Slice the bread buns in half and spread a layer of butter on the cut sides. Toast the bread on a preheated skillet or grill until golden brown.

Layering the Sandwich:

1. Start with a bun half as the base.
2. Spread some mayonnaise and a little mustard on the bread.
3. Place a couple of lettuce leaves followed by tomato slices.
4. Add slices of the cooked beef tenderloin.
5. Layer on the ham and slices of cheese.
6. Top with crispy bacon and a fried egg.

Repeat the layering for each sandwich, then place the remaining half of the bun on top.

Cooking the Sandwich

Once assembled, place the sandwiches back onto a preheated skillet or panini press. Allow them to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the bread is crispy. For precise timing, feel free to use a cooking timer to ensure the perfect Chivito Melt.

How to Enjoy the Chivito Melt

The Chivito Melt is best enjoyed fresh off the pan when the flavors are hot and inviting. Pair the sandwich with a side of French fries or a simple salad for a balanced meal. The richness of the layers and the melted cheese offer a comforting and satisfying bite. It's an excellent dish for a hearty lunch or a casual dinner, perfect for sharing with friends and family.