5 Traditional Dishes Of Uruguay To Try

During the 19th century, emigrants from Spain and Italy arrived in Uruguay and greatly influenced most Uruguayan traditions, its language and, of course, its delicious cuisine. Discover these 5 traditional dishes from Uruguay that you just can’t miss.

* Asado

Anyone who loves meat as much as Uruguayans do will consider asado to be this list’s top item. The tradition consists of a barbecue including every type of meat imaginable (beef, chicken, and pork), and a great variety of sausages and achuras (referring to offal). Asado is not only traditional because of the food, but also the rituals surrounding it. For instance, asado is usually attended in large groups, part of most special occasions, and it lasts for several hours while the food is being prepared. Also, the person in charge of grilling the meat is known as the asador.

* Capeletis a la Caruso

Pasta is one of the most popular dishes in Uruguay and the one that rules family gatherings every Sunday, when families get together for lunch. Capeletis a la caruso can be considered the most Uruguayan pasta. First of all, just by being pasta. Secondly, because the pockets are stuffed with meat, one of Uruguay’s top ingredients. And finally, because of its dressing, which was invented in Uruguay. The sauce combines cream, onions, mushrooms, ham, cheese, and meat extract—because no dish is truly Uruguayan unless there’s lots of meat in it.

* Arroz con Leche

Yes, rice is the main ingredient of this irresistible recipe, which is translated as “rice with milk.” In fact, rice and milk, plus eggs and sugar are all that’s needed to make this traditional Uruguayan dessert. It’s usually served with a pinch of cinnamon on top or dulce de leche—because, of course, dulce de leche can go in almost every Uruguayan sweet dish.

* Chivito

Everyone should have a chivito while in Uruguay, as it was invented here. Though its name means “small goat,” it’s actually not made from goat meat. It consists of a beef sandwich with tons of different ingredients in it, usually including a fried egg, lettuce, tomato, ham, mozzarella, bacon, olives, bell pepper, and mayonnaise. And no chivito is complete without a huge serving of French fries.

* Tortas Fritas

Uruguayans are never defeated by a rainy day, and one of the main reasons they stay so positive is this dish. A torta frita is a fried bread, sometimes served with a pinch of sugar on top. They are mostly sold as street food on rainy days, but many Uruguayan families prepare the snack themselves and share them during a drizzling afternoon.