Saveur

View Gallery Photo: André Baranowski

SERVES 4

Chimichurri, a kind of spicy, vinegar-laced pesto, is the condiment of choice with the asado, or grilled beef, of Argentina.

1 packed cup fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
3⁄4 packed cup fresh cilantro leaves
1⁄4 packed cup fresh oregano leaves
1⁄4 cup red wine vinegar
6 cloves garlic
1⁄2 jalapeño, stemmed
Salt and freshly ground white pepper
1⁄2 cup plus 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
4  1 1⁄2"-thick rib-eye steaks (about 2 1⁄2 lbs. total)

1. In a food processor, combine the parsley, cilantro, oregano, vinegar, garlic, jalapeño, 2 tsp. salt, and 1⁄2 tsp. pepper. While pulsing the food processor, drizzle in 1⁄2 cup of the oil until the mixture becomes a creamy yet slightly coarse sauce. Transfer the chimichurri sauce to a bowl and set aside.

2. Season the steaks all over with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp. oil in a large cast-iron skillet over high heat just until oil begins to smoke. Add 2 steaks and cook, flipping once, until well browned on both sides and medium rare, 8–10 minutes total. Transfer cooked steaks to a large plate, cover loosely with foil, and set aside in a warm spot. Repeat process with remaining oil and steaks. Serve steak with the chimichurri sauce.

This article was first published in Saveur in Issue #103