Argentina’s Alfajor and Parrilla, Brazil’s Churrasco, and Peru’s CevicheAn iconic Argentine treat, the alfajor is a sandwich-style dessert made with two or more cookies filled with luscious layers of dulce de leche, honey, or fruit preserves, often coated in chocolate, sugar icing, or powdered sugar. Some versions incorporate nuts like almonds or chunks of chocolate for texture.

May 15, 2025, 5:06 pm EDT

Discovering Latin America’s Flavorful Tapestry: Argentina’s Alfajor and Parrilla, Brazil’s Churrasco, and Peru’s Ceviche

Alfajor: Argentina’s Sweet Embrace of Heritage

An iconic Argentine treat, the alfajor is a sandwich-style dessert made with two or more cookies filled with luscious layers of dulce de leche, honey, or fruit preserves, often coated in chocolate, sugar icing, or powdered sugar. Some versions incorporate nuts like almonds or chunks of chocolate for texture.

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Origins and Journey:
Rooted in Spanish cuisine, the alfajor dates back to the 18th century and arrived in South America with Spanish colonizers. Over time, it evolved to include local ingredients like dulce de leche, becoming a beloved symbol of Argentine sweetness. Today, it’s a staple at festivals, family gatherings, and café menus, embodying the fusion of European and Latin American culinary traditions.

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Parrilla: Argentina’s Art of Grilling on Metal Racks

In Argentina, parrilla is more than a cooking method—it’s a culinary institution. Unlike traditional barbecues, parrilla uses a metal grill (parrilla) positioned above glowing charcoal or wood, allowing meats to cook slowly at a distance from the flame. This technique creates a crispy, charred exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy. The grill’s slotted, angled design drains excess fat, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Signature Cuts:
Popular choices include morcilla (blood sausage), chorizo, short ribs, and tenderloin. Whether in a bustling Buenos Aires steakhouse or a family backyard, parrilla showcases Argentina’s passion for quality meat and the art of slow, communal cooking. It’s a cornerstone of asado culture, where the grill becomes a centerpiece for sharing stories and savoring every bite.

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Churrasco: Brazil’s Carnivalesque Grill Tradition

A symbol of Brazilian hospitality, churrasco is a style of 烤肉 (grilled meat) where various cuts—beef, veal, lamb, pork, chicken, and fish—are skewered on large metal rods (churrasqueiras) and cooked over an open wood fire. Originating in the gaucho (cowboy) culture of southern Brazil, this method emphasizes juicy, smoky flavors and communal dining.

The Churrascaria Experience:
In Brazilian steakhouses (churrascarias), servers circulate with skewers of perfectly grilled meats, slicing portions tableside based on guests’ preferences. Popular in Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Bolivia, churrasco reflects South America’s love for fire-roasted meats and festive gatherings, where every meal feels like a celebration.

Ceviche: Peru’s Tangy National Dish of “Raw” Perfection

Peru’s ceviche is a culinary revelation: fresh raw fish or shellfish sliced into thin pieces, marinated in citrus juice (usually lime), and seasoned with salt, onions, and chili peppers. The acid in the lime “cooks” the seafood, transforming its texture from translucent to opaque while infusing it with bright, zesty flavors.

A Dish Rooted in History:
With indigenous and coastal roots, ceviche dates back to pre-Columbian times, though the addition of lime and onions reflects Spanish influence. Served as a refreshing appetizer or main course, it’s a testament to Peru’s diverse ecosystems and culinary innovation. Today, it’s celebrated globally as a masterpiece of raw seafood preparation, embodying the country’s vibrant coastal culture.

From Argentina’s sweet alfajores to Peru’s tangy ceviche, these dishes capture the soul of Latin America—where history, tradition, and bold flavors converge. Each bite tells a story of migration, adaptation, and the joy of sharing food that connects communities across borders.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Photos and vendor details are not included.

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