Chilean sandwiches

Chilean Sandwiches

Chilean sandwiches are a staple of Chilean cuisine, reflecting the country's diverse culinary landscape. These sandwiches are known for their hearty ingredients, including various types of meats, avocado, tomatoes, and mayonnaise, among others. They are a popular choice for lunch and dinner and can be found in a wide range of eateries, from street food vendors to high-end restaurants across Chile. This article explores some of the most iconic Chilean sandwiches, their ingredients, and their cultural significance.

Types of Chilean Sandwiches

Chacarero

The Chacarero is a unique sandwich that combines thinly sliced churrasco (grilled steak) with tomatoes, green beans, and chili peppers, all served on a round bread roll. The combination of the green beans with the meat and chili gives the Chacarero a distinctive taste and texture that sets it apart from other sandwiches.

Barros Luco

Named after a former Chilean president, the Barros Luco features hot, melted cheese and steak or sometimes pork, sandwiched between two slices of bread. It is a simple yet flavorful sandwich, showcasing the quality of the meat and the richness of the cheese used.

Barros Jarpa

A variation of the Barros Luco, the Barros Jarpa substitutes ham for the steak, offering a lighter option. It still includes melted cheese and is often preferred for a less heavy meal, especially popular among children and as a breakfast option.

Italiano

The Italiano is named for its resemblance to the Italian flag, featuring ingredients in the colors of green, white, and red. It consists of sliced avocado (green), mayonnaise (white), and tomatoes (red) with sliced meat, usually beef or pork. The Italiano is celebrated for its fresh flavors and is a favorite during the summer months.

Completo

Though technically a hot dog, the Completo deserves mention due to its popularity and its sandwich-like characteristics in Chilean cuisine. It is a hot dog bun filled with a sausage and topped with ingredients similar to those found in other Chilean sandwiches, such as avocado, tomatoes, and mayonnaise, often also including sauerkraut and chili.

Cultural Significance

Chilean sandwiches are more than just food; they are a part of the country's cultural identity. They reflect the agricultural richness of Chile and the blending of indigenous and European culinary traditions. Eating these sandwiches is a social activity, often enjoyed with friends and family at local fuentes de soda (soda fountains) or as street food.

See Also

• Chilean cuisine
• Street food
• Sandwiches