Delicious Christmas Dinner Ideas: Try These Authentic Argentina Recipes
Christmas is a special time of year in Argentina, and as in many Latin American countries, is filled with unique traditions and delicious food. As a country with strong European influences, Argentina has its own take on the holiday season. In this article, I will introduce you to the wonderful world of Argentine Christmas traditions and share some mouthwatering recipes of amazing traditional foods that you can try for your own Christmas dinner.
Traditional Argentine Christmas foods
When it comes to Christmas dinner in Argentina, there are a few dishes that are an absolute must. These traditional Argentine Christmas foods have been passed down through generations and are beloved by families across the country.
Pan Dulce - The Sweet Bread of Argentina
No Argentine Christmas would be complete without a slice of pan dulce. This sweet bread, similar to Italian panettone, is a staple on Christmas tables all over the country. Made with flour, sugar, eggs, and dried fruits, pan dulce is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of Malbec.
Argentinian pan dulce, also known as Panettone, is a traditional sweet bread enjoyed during the Christmas season.
Here’s a recipe for making Argentinian Pan Dulce:
Ingredients:
For the Starter:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm milk
For the Filling:
- 1 cup mixed candied fruits (such as citron, orange peel, and cherries)
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup apricot jam or marmalade
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
Starter:
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Add flour to the yeast mixture, stirring until well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise for about 30 minutes.
Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with warm milk. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Add the starter to the dough, kneading until well combined.
Fold in the candied fruits, raisins, and chopped nuts.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.
Assembly:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface.
Divide the dough in half. Shape each portion into a round loaf.
Place the dough in greased panettone molds or round cake pans.
Let the dough rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Glaze:
In a small saucepan, heat apricot jam or marmalade with water over low heat until melted.
Brush the warm glaze over the tops of the panettone for a shiny finish.
Allow the pan dulce to cool completely before slicing.
Serve your Argentinian Pan Dulce as a festive and sweet treat during the holiday season. Enjoy!
Vitello Tonnato - A Classic Main Course for Christmas Dinner
For the main course of your Argentine Christmas dinner, consider serving vitello tonnato. This classic Italian dish is a favorite in Argentina and is often enjoyed during the holiday season. It consists of thinly sliced veal served with a creamy sauce made from tuna, anchovies, capers, and mayonnaise. If you’ve never had it before, slices of veal can be delicious!
Ingredients:
For the Veal:
- 1 1/2 pounds (700g) veal roast
- 1 onion, roughly chopped
- 1 carrot, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for searing
For the Tuna Sauce:
- 1 cup canned tuna in olive oil, drained
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 2 anchovy fillets
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Capers
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veal:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the veal roast with salt and pepper.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the veal on all sides until browned.
- In a roasting pan, place the seared veal, chopped onion, carrot, celery, garlic, and bay leaf.
- Add enough water to cover the veal. Cover the pan with foil.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until the veal reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Remove the veal from the oven, let it cool, and then refrigerate until chilled.
2. Make the Tuna Sauce:
- In a food processor, combine drained tuna, capers, anchovies, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and lemon juice.
- Process until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with a little water if needed.
3. Assemble:
- Thinly slice the chilled veal and arrange it on a serving platter.
- Pour a generous amount of tuna sauce over the veal slices, ensuring they are well covered.
- Garnish with additional capers, chopped fresh parsley, and lemon slices.
4. Serve:
- Refrigerate the dish for at least a couple of hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Vitello Tonnato is typically served as a cold antipasto. Enjoy it as a refreshing and flavorful appetizer on a warm day!
Dulce de Leche - A Sweet Delight for Dessert
No Argentine Christmas dinner would be complete without a decadent dessert, and dulce de leche fits the bill perfectly. This creamy caramel sauce is made by slowly simmering sweetened condensed milk until it thickens and develops a rich, caramel flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (14 ounces each) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Stovetop Method:
Preparation: Remove the labels from the cans of sweetened condensed milk. Ensure there are no dents or damage to the cans.
Boiling the Cans:
- Place the unopened cans in a large pot.
- Fill the pot with enough water to completely submerge the cans.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Let the cans simmer for about 2 to 3 hours, ensuring they are fully submerged in water. Check occasionally and add more water if needed.
Cooling and Opening:
- Carefully remove the cans from the water and let them cool to room temperature.
- Once cool, open the cans. You’ll find that the sweetened condensed milk has transformed into a thick and creamy dulce de leche.
2. Oven Method:
Preparation: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Pouring into a Baking Dish:
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk into an oven-safe dish.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
Cover and Bake:
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Place the covered dish in a larger baking pan, and add hot water to the larger pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the smaller dish.
- Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring the mixture every 30 minutes until it turns a rich, caramel color.
Cooling:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool. The dulce de leche will continue to thicken as it cools.
3. Instant Pot Method:
Preparation: Pour sweetened condensed milk into glass jars. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Seal the jars tightly.
Pressure Cooking:
- Place a trivet in the Instant Pot and add water.
- Put the sealed jars on the trivet.
- Cook on high pressure for about 30 minutes.
Cooling:
- Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally.
- Once cooled, the sweetened condensed milk in the jars will have turned into dulce de leche.
Storage:
- Store homemade dulce de leche in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for a few weeks.
Now you have a delicious batch of homemade dulce de leche that you can use as a topping, filling, or just enjoy by the spoonful!
Chimichurri Sauce - The Perfect Accompaniment to Argentine Dishes
No Argentine Christmas dinner would be complete without a side of chimichurri sauce. This vibrant and flavorful sauce is made from a combination of fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and spices. It is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for bread.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
Prep the Ingredients:
- Finely chop the fresh parsley, cilantro, and oregano.
- Mince the garlic.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, and chopped oregano.
Add Liquids:
- Pour in the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar.
Season:
- Add the crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Mix Well:
- Stir the ingredients together until well combined.
Optional: Add Lemon Juice:
- If you like a bit of citrus flavor, add lemon juice to taste.
Rest and Serve:
- Allow the chimichurri sauce to sit for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Adjust Consistency:
- If the sauce is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil.
Serve:
- Serve the chimichurri sauce as a condiment for grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a marinade.
Tips:
Freshness is Key: Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. You can adjust the ratio of parsley to cilantro based on your preference.
Storage: Chimichurri can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
Customize Heat: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
Chimichurri is versatile and can add a burst of flavor to various dishes. Feel free to experiment with the ingredient proportions to suit your taste preferences.
Ensalada Rusa or Russian Potato Salad
Another popular Argentine Christmas dish is Russian salad or ensalada Rusa. This creamy salad is made with boiled potatoes, carrots, and peas, mixed with mayonnaise and flavored with mustard and lemon juice. It is a refreshing and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a side or as a light main course.
Ingredients:
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup diced cooked ham (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced cooked beets (optional, for color)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
Boil Potatoes and Carrots:
- In separate pots, boil the diced potatoes and carrots until they are tender but still firm. Drain and let them cool to room temperature.
Prepare Peas:
- If using frozen peas, thaw them by running them under warm water or microwaving for a short time. If using fresh peas, blanch them until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
Mix Mayonnaise Dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, white vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Assemble Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled potatoes, carrots, peas, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
- If using, add diced ham and beets for extra flavor and color.
Add Dressing:
- Pour the mayonnaise dressing over the vegetables and gently toss until everything is well coated.
Chill:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the ensalada rusa for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.
Garnish and Serve:
- Before serving, garnish the salad with chopped fresh parsley.
Optional: Customize Ingredients:
- You can add other ingredients like olives, pickles, or cooked chicken to customize the salad to your liking.
Tips:
Make-Ahead: Ensalada Rusa can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, letting it chill for a few hours enhances the flavor.
Adjust Consistency: If the salad seems dry after refrigerating, you can add a little more mayonnaise before serving.
Serve Cold: This salad is best served cold, making it a refreshing side dish for warm weather or a popular addition to picnics and gatherings.
Enjoy your delicious Ensalada Rusa!
Argentine Christmas desserts - Ice cream and more
In Argentina, Christmas falls during the summer months, which means that cold desserts, and cold foods in general, are a popular choice to beat the heat. One of the most beloved Argentine desserts is ice cream, and it is often enjoyed on Christmas day. Whether you prefer classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate or more unique options like dulce de leche or mate, there is an ice cream flavor for everyone to enjoy.
Christmas decorations in Argentina - The Christmas tree and beyond
Just like in many other countries, the Christmas tree is a central decoration in Argentine homes during the holiday season. Families gather around the tree to exchange gifts and share the joy of the season. In addition to the Christmas tree, you will also find other festive decorations such as lights, garlands, and nativity scenes.
In Argentina, Christmas decorations often feature images and symbols associated with the country’s unique culture. For example, you might find ornaments shaped like tango dancers, gauchos (Argentine cowboys), or colorful birds like the national bird of Argentina, the Rufous Hornero. These decorations add a touch of Argentine flair to the holiday season.
Where to find Argentine ingredients in the United States
If you’re planning to recreate an authentic Argentine Christmas dinner, you may be wondering where to find the necessary ingredients. Fortunately, there are several options available, even if you don’t live in Argentina. Many grocery stores in the United States carry a selection of Argentine products, including dulce de leche, chimichurri sauce, and even pan dulce. Check your local supermarket or specialty food stores to see what they have in stock.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for locally, there are also online retailers that specialize in Latin American foods. These websites offer a wide range of Argentine ingredients and products, allowing you to create an authentic Argentine Christmas dinner no matter where you are in the United States.
Celebrate Christmas the Argentine way with these delicious recipes
This Christmas, why not switch things up, say Feliz Navidad, and celebrate the holiday the Argentine way? With their unique traditions and mouthwatering dishes, Argentine Christmas celebrations are sure to delight your taste buds and create lasting memories. From pan dulce to vitello tonnato, dulce de leche to chimichurri sauce, these authentic Argentine recipes will transport you to the bustling streets of Buenos Aires and the warm embrace of family and friends. So, gather your loved ones, embrace the spirit of Christmas in the southern hemisphere, and enjoy a festive feast that captures the essence of Argentina.
Celebrate Christmas the Argentine way with these delicious recipes and make this holiday season one to remember!
