🇦🇷 Argentinean Ground Beef, known as “Carne Picada” or “Carne Molida,” is a versatile and popular ingredient in Argentine cuisine. It’s commonly used in a variety of dishes, including empanadas, milanesas, and as a filling for savory pastries.
📜 History:
Argentine cuisine is heavily influenced by Spanish and Italian culinary traditions. The use of ground beef became prevalent due to the influx of European immigrants in Argentina during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As these immigrants brought their culinary influences, dishes like empanadas and hamburgers (known as “hamburguesas” in Argentina) featuring ground beef became staples in the Argentine diet.
🥩 Components:
Argentinean Ground Beef is typically made from high-quality cuts of beef, such as sirloin or chuck. It’s ground or minced to create a fine texture. The components are straightforward – beef and, optionally, some seasoning like salt, pepper, or paprika, depending on the recipe.
👩🍳 Preparation:
Here’s a basic recipe for preparing Argentinean Ground Beef:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or garlic for added flavor
Steps:
- Start by heating a pan over medium heat. There’s no need for additional oil since the beef will release its own fat as it cooks.
- If you’re adding onions, peppers, or garlic, sauté them first until they become tender and aromatic.
- Add the ground beef to the pan and break it into small pieces using a spatula. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
⏰ Time Needed:
The preparation of Argentinean Ground Beef is relatively quick. It typically takes around 15-20 minutes, including the time needed to brown the meat and any additional sautéing for flavor. The exact time may vary depending on the quantity of meat and the thickness of the ground beef layer in the pan.
🍽️ Once your Argentinean Ground Beef is ready, you can use it in various recipes such as empanadas, picadillo for milanesas, or even as a topping for fries in dishes like “papas a la provenzal.” Enjoy your Argentinean culinary adventure with this delicious and versatile ingredient! 🇦🇷🍔🥟
Certainly! Here are some nutrition facts and health information for Argentinean Ground Beef:
Nutrition Facts (per 3.5 ounces, cooked):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Protein: About 25-30 grams
- Total Fat: Around 17-21 grams
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 7-8 grams
- Cholesterol: Around 70-80 milligrams
- Iron: About 2-3 milligrams
- Sodium: Varies depending on added salt, typically 50-60 milligrams
- No carbohydrates or dietary fiber
Health Information:
- Protein Source: Argentinean Ground Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Iron: It provides a significant amount of heme iron, which is well-absorbed by the body and essential for preventing anemia.
- Fat Content: It contains a moderate amount of fat, with a portion being saturated fat. It’s essential to consume it in moderation, especially if you’re concerned about saturated fat intake.
- Cholesterol: While it contains cholesterol, it’s not exceptionally high, but it’s still wise to watch your overall dietary cholesterol intake.
- Sodium: The sodium content is relatively low, but it can vary depending on added salt. Reducing salt in your recipe can make it a healthier choice.
- Nutrient Variety: Argentinean Ground Beef provides essential nutrients such as B vitamins, zinc, and phosphorus.
Remember that the exact nutrition facts may vary depending on the type and cut of beef used, as well as any additional ingredients or seasonings in your recipe. When incorporating Argentinean Ground Beef into your diet, it’s important to consider portion sizes and overall dietary balance for a healthy and well-rounded meal.
