Diego, the grill master, cooks an array of meat in the Andes, an amazing barbecue setting. Photo by Kendal Montgomery
On any given summer weekend here in Santiago — or really in all of Chile — it is highly likely that the scent of grilled meat will reach your nostrils. Chileans absolutely love barbecues.
The country is well-equipped for grilling. Generally all houses, newer apartment buildings and big parks have "quinchos," which is the ultimate grill set-up, and almost all use charcoal, giving it that real barbecue feel.
Now, cooking meat over a fire outside is by no means Chilean, however a Chilean "asado" is its own thing…I´ll never forget my first experience.
It´s all about the meat, always three kinds: sausages, chicken and the main event, steak. It´s truly a meat overload. But, it wouldn´t be a real Chilean barbecue without all the meat. In fact, if you´re with a group of guys, that´s generally all you´ll have: Meat!
So you start out with the "choripan," which is a chorizo in between a fresh "marraqueta," similar to French bread. If you´re at a good one, this delicious starter will be accompanied by fresh "pebre," which is chopped onions, garlic, tomatoes, hot peppers and often cilantro mixed in oil and salt.
Then comes the chicken, a leg to nibble while the exalted red meat cooks on. The seasoning is simple: ample amounts of salt. Nothing is marinated, for an asado need not be complicated by the things of chefs. No, salt is the only ingredient, so the meat may be in enjoyed in all its meaty glory.
And alas, the meat is cut, maybe cooked a little longer for some, and it is time to eat. A typical asado will have some type of potato, be it just a cooked potato ready for salt — Chileans are extremely fond of salt — or maybe potato salad. Also, there will probably be a Chilean salad, which is fresh tomatoes, onions and yes, more salt. Drinks wise, alcohol is generally involved, Piscolas, beer, wine, the usual. From there it will vary, but the aforementioned is the base on which Chilean asados are made.
It´s a great tradition here, getting together with family and friends and sharing in the process of making a meal. You generally end up thinking, "Man, I just ate way too much meat," but that´s simply how it is.
Can you imagine two in one weekend? It´s not so uncommon…
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