Home

Chivito

17/11/2023

The Chivito is a typical Uruguayan sandwich that is very hearty and full of flavor. The classic version includes a slice of beef, often a fillet, referred to as “lomo” in Uruguay. It is served on a bun, usually with mayonnaise, lettuce, tomatoes, slices of crispy bacon, fried eggs, slices of mozzarella, olives, and peppers.

Here is the recipe with an Italian twist:

Ingredients

  • 4 soft buns (such as brioche or ciabatta)
  • 4 thin slices of beef loin (about 150 g each)
  • 4 slices of bacon
  • 4 slices of mozzarella
  • 4 eggs
  • Lettuce, as needed
  • 2 tomatoes, sliced
  • Mayonnaise, as needed
  • Pitted black olives, for garnish
  • Pickled peppers (optional)
  • Olive oil, salt and pepper, as needed

Preparation

  1. Start by preparing all the ingredients: wash and dry the lettuce, slice the tomatoes and drain the pickled peppers if you decided to use them.

  2. Heat a pan and cook the bacon slices until they become crispy. Set aside on paper towels to remove excess oil.

  3. In the same pan, cook the beef loin slices seasoned with salt and pepper, one at a time, about 2-3 minutes per side depending on the thickness and your cooking preference. Keep the meat warm.

  4. In the same pan, reduced to medium heat, cook the fried eggs, trying to keep the yolk soft. Season lightly with salt.

  5. Cut the buns in half without completely separating them and, if desired, lightly toast them.

  6. Assemble the Chivitos: spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the buns, then layer on the lettuce, tomato slices, meat, mozzarella, fried egg, and crispy bacon. Top with olives and peppers if you are using them.

  7. Serve immediately, warm and full of all its tasty layers.

It should be noted that in Uruguay it might come with a side of french fries, so if you want to follow tradition, it would be a nice touch to also add some crispy fries.

Since we’ve added a touch of Italy to the Chivito, you might want to accompany the sandwich with a nice glass of full-bodied Italian red wine, which goes well with the rich flavor of the meat and bacon. A Chianti or a Nebbiolo could be a great choice.

Chivito