Chivito Sandwich

Background and History

The Chivito sandwich is a celebrated national dish of Uruguay, renowned for its flavorful layers and hearty nature. Rumor has it that this sandwich was accidentally invented when a restaurant customer requested a sandwich made with goat meat, known as "chivito" in Spanish, but was instead served a sandwich with a steak due to the unavailability of goat at the time. This fortuitous mistake gave birth to what would become Uruguay’s most popular sandwich.

Typically enjoyed as a casual street food or as a more indulgent meal, the Chivito has captivated taste buds around the world. The rich, savory layers of steak, ham, cheese, and vegetables ensure that every bite is a delightful experience. Whether savored at a food stand in Montevideo or recreated lovingly at home, this sandwich reflects the diverse culinary influences and the vibrant culture of Uruguay.

Ingredients

• Ribeye steak (thin-cut, about 150g)
• Ham (2 slices)
• Bacon (2 slices)
• Mozzarella cheese (2 slices)
• Red onion (small, thinly sliced)
• Tomato (sliced)
• Lettuce leaves
• Hard-boiled egg (sliced)
• Mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Butter
• Ciabatta bread (or a similar type of soft roll)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation

To prepare the perfect Chivito, gather and prepare all ingredients beforehand. Thinly slice the red onion and tomato and set them aside. Also, have slices of ribeye steak, ham, mozzarella cheese, and crispy bacon ready. Prepare the lettuce by washing and drying, then shred or leave whole depending on your preference. The ciabatta bread should be fresh, or it can be slightly toasted. Ensure the hard-boiled eggs are sliced and ready to top the final layers of the sandwich.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Cooking the Steak and Bacon

Heat a grill pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Season the ribeye steak with salt and pepper, then place it onto the grill pan. Grill the steak for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side for medium doneness, or adjust according to your cooking preference. Once cooked, remove the steak and let it rest.

In the same pan, cook the bacon slices until crispy. This will add a smoky flavor and crunchy texture to your sandwich. Once cooked, remove and drain them on a paper towel.

Step 2: Toasting the Bread

Cut the ciabatta bread in half lengthwise. Spread a light layer of butter on the cut sides of the bread. Toast the ciabatta bread on a grill or toaster until it gains a light golden color and a crunchy texture that will complement the soft fillings.

Step 3: Assembling the Chivito

Spread mayonnaise on one half of the toasted ciabatta bread. Place layers of lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and red onion rings as the base of your sandwich. Lay the grilled ribeye steak over the fresh vegetables, then add slices of ham and mozzarella cheese on top of the steak. Using the residual heat from the pan or a quick broil, slightly melt the cheese to achieve a delectable gooey texture.

Next, place the crispy bacon slices and hard-boiled egg slices on top of the ham and mozzarella cheese. Optionally, add a drizzle of ketchup for additional sweetness and tanginess. Top with the other half of the bread to complete the sandwich.

Enjoying Your Meal

Enjoy the Chivito sandwich with a side of fries or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. The medley of flavors from the savory steak, the richness of the bacon, the creamy melt of cheese, and the refreshing crunch of vegetables creates a perfect harmony in every bite.

For an enhanced experience, pair your sandwich with a chilled beer or a glass of red wine that complements the robust flavors of the Chivito. Don't forget to savor each mouthful and enjoy the delightful combination of tastes and textures that characterize this iconic sandwich.