Choripán
The quintessential Argentine street food, a Choripán is a grilled chorizo sausage nestled in a crusty bread roll, generously slathered with vibrant chimichurri sauce. Perfect for game days, barbecues, or any casual gathering.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 Chorizo criollo(Argentine-style fresh chorizo, not cured Spanish chorizo.)
- 4 rolls Crusty bread rolls(Baguette-style rolls or similar crusty bread, sliced lengthwise.)
- 120 ml Chimichurri sauce(Store-bought or homemade.)
- 1 cup Fresh parsley(Finely chopped.)
- 1 tbsp Dried oregano
- 4 cloves Garlic(Minced.)
- 60 ml Red wine vinegar
- 120 ml Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Salt(Or to taste.)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground, or to taste.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the chimichurri (if making from scratch): In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to combine. For best flavor, let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Prepare the chorizo: If the chorizo links are very thick, you can gently score them in a crosshatch pattern to help them cook evenly and prevent bursting. Do not pierce them deeply, as this will release valuable juices.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 3
Grill the chorizo: Preheat your grill (charcoal or gas) to medium-high heat, around 200-230°C (400-450°F). Place the chorizo sausages directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausages are deeply browned, slightly charred, and cooked through. You should see them plump up and hear a gentle sizzle.
⏱️ 12-15 minutes - 4
Toast the bread: While the chorizo is grilling, slice the bread rolls lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through if you prefer a hinged roll. Place the cut sides down on the grill for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, just until lightly golden and toasted. This adds a delightful crunch and prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
⏱️ 2-3 minutes - 5
Assemble the Choripán: Once the chorizo is cooked, carefully remove it from the grill. Using a sharp knife, split each chorizo sausage lengthwise down the middle, but not all the way through, creating a pocket. Place the split chorizo inside the toasted bread roll. Generously spoon the chimichurri sauce over the chorizo. Close the sandwich and serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure you are using 'chorizo criollo' or fresh Argentine chorizo, which is typically un-cured and needs to be cooked thoroughly. It differs significantly from cured Spanish chorizo.
- ✓The bread should have a good crust to hold up to the juicy chorizo and sauce.
- ✓Don't be shy with the chimichurri! It's the key flavor component that balances the richness of the chorizo.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For added freshness, top with a simple criolla salsa (diced tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and herbs).
- Experiment with different types of fresh sausages, such as pork or beef sausages, though chorizo criollo is traditional.