Provoleta
Argentina is famous for its delicious cuisine, and one of the most popular dishes is provoleta. This traditional Argentine recipe is a type of melted cheese that is made by grilling slices of provolone cheese until they become warm and gooey. Provoleta is a staple of any asado, or barbecue, and is a favorite appetizer or side dish in Argentina.
Provolone cheese is a semi-hard, cow’s milk cheese that originated in southern Italy. When Italian immigrants came to Argentina in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they brought this cheese with them. However, in Argentina, the cheese is made using a slightly different process and is aged longer than provolone cheese in Italy, giving it a distinct flavor and texture.
The provoleta recipe is straightforward and simple, making it easy to prepare at home. The cheese is cut into thick slices and then marinated in a mixture of olive oil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. The marinated cheese is then grilled directly over hot coals until it is bubbly and browned on the outside.
One of the best things about provoleta is that it can be served as a starter, side dish, or even as the main course. It is often paired with a fresh salad, crusty bread, and a glass of red wine for a complete Argentine dining experience.
Provoleta is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any taste. For example, some people like to add slices of tomatoes or onions to the cheese before grilling, while others prefer to add chorizo or other meats. The possibilities are endless, and it is up to the cook to experiment with different flavor combinations to create their own unique twist on this classic dish.
In addition to being delicious, provoleta is also healthy for you. Provolone cheese is a good source of protein and calcium. It also contains healthy monounsaturated fats and is lower in calories than many other types of cheese.
Overall, provoleta is a must-try dish for anyone who loves cheese and wants to experience the flavors of Argentina. It is a simple, yet delicious recipe that has stood the test of time and continues to be a popular dish in Argentine homes and restaurants. So fire up your grill, grab a bottle of Malbec wine, and get ready to indulge in the flavorful goodness that is Argentine provoleta.
Ingredients:
-1 pound Provoleta cheese -1 tbsp. olive oil -1 tbsp. dried oregano -2 tsp. red pepper flakes -Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
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Thinly slice the provoleta cheese into ΒΌ inch rounds.
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Brush each slice with olive oil on both sides.
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Mix together the oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
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Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over each slice of cheese.
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Place the cheese slices onto the grill or grill pan.
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Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and lightly charred.
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Serve the provoleta immediately while it is still warm and gooey.