The Argentinians have a freewheeling style of cookery, as a culture it is a blend of Mediterranean influences such as Italian and Spanish. Although Gnocchi is the recognised national dish of Argentina nothing truly sums it up more than the Asado (the argentine barbecue). Argentine people have a love of eating and turn all meals into a social gathering. Invitations to dinner at a home is generally considered a sign of friendships, warmth and integration. Sunday lunch is considered the most significant meal of the week. 

Many argentines have descendants of the Italian Immigrants who came in the late 1800s, Italian dishes are found throughout the country. Before the European explorers arrived Native Indians lived in Argentina. Members of the Indian tribes in the northern region of the country grew squash, melons and sweet potatoes. This combined with the large numbers of European immigrants created a unique style of cookery which combines fresh pasata’s, and a British love of tea time and of course Argentinas favourite food beef! 

For me wether it was cooking a salad lunch or spending the day preparing for an aside to be eaten through out the evening – what I realised about Argentine food is it is simple. The recipes I have learnt are ones that have been handed down over generations and slowly over my time here I have been let in on some of the secrets. Although not everything is 100% traditional I have left Argentina with an incredible in sight into food that has been served across the country for hundreds of years.

I love how over the year I have spent here we have cooked using seasonal good – when the asparagus was in season we ate abundant amounts of the freshest asparagus but when it was gone it was gone. It didn’t worry us as soon we were eating the summer vegetables and fruits.