This Monday, February 17, is not just another day on the calendar—it’s Chacarero Day! In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about this unique Chilean sandwich and how to prepare it at home.
Chilean Cuisine and the Chacarero
Chilean cuisine is diverse, offering a wide range of flavors for every taste. From hearty stews to sweet treats, Chile’s gastronomy has something for everyone. Among its most famous culinary traditions, sandwiches hold a special place. Some of the most iconic Chilean sandwiches include the Completo, the Churrasco Italiano, and the Barros Luco.
While these sandwiches enjoy broad popularity due to their beloved ingredients—such as tomato and avocado—the Chacarero has a more polarized reception. This is mainly due to one of its key components: green beans. While some people love the unique combination, others remain skeptical about incorporating vegetables like green beans into a sandwich.
The Origins of the Chacarero
The name “Chacarero” has its roots in the word “chacra,” which means farm. According to the San Bernardo Chamber of Commerce, this name perfectly reflects the ingredients that make up the sandwich. The Chacarero consists of fresh, farm-sourced elements: green beans, chili peppers, and tomatoes. Even the beef used in the sandwich typically comes from cattle raised in rural areas.
Despite its divided reception among Chileans, the Chacarero has gained international recognition. In 2014, Time magazine included it in its article The 13 Most Amazing Sandwiches the World Has to Offer. This honor placed the Chacarero among some of the world’s best sandwiches, drawing global attention to this Chilean culinary creation.
How to Make a Chacarero
To help you celebrate Chacarero Day properly, we have gathered a traditional recipe from the Chilean food website Cocina Chilena. Follow these steps to make an authentic Chacarero at home.
Ingredients:
- 1 marraqueta or frica bread (hamburger bun can be used as a substitute)
- 1 thin beef steak (posta, asiento, or any thin-cut beef)
- 1 cup of green beans (adjust to taste)
- 1 large tomato
- 1 green chili pepper
- Butter
- Mayonnaise (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Green Beans: Wash the green beans, trim the ends, and cut them into thin strips. Boil them in salted water for about 10 minutes. To retain their bright green color and firm texture, you can shock them in ice water after boiling. Alternatively, some prefer adding raw green beans to the sandwich for a crunchier texture.
- Prepare the Beef: If the steak is not already thin, pound it with a meat mallet or cut it into thin slices.
- Cook the Beef: Heat a pan over high heat with a bit of oil. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned but still tender.
- Prepare the Bread: Toast the bread in the oven or a pan. For extra crispiness, lightly butter the inside before toasting.
- Assemble the Chacarero:
- Spread some of the beef’s cooking juices on the bread for added flavor.
- Place the cooked steak on the bottom half of the bread.
- Add sliced tomatoes on top.
- Add the green beans.
- Slice the green chili pepper and place it on top (adjust quantity based on spice preference).
- Optionally, spread some mayonnaise on the top half of the bread.
- Close the sandwich and enjoy!
Why Try the Chacarero?
The Chacarero stands out for its bold and unexpected combination of ingredients. The tender beef, juicy tomato, and crunchy green beans create a balance of flavors and textures. The green chili pepper adds a spicy kick, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.
Beyond its taste, the Chacarero represents a connection to Chile’s agricultural traditions. Every bite contains fresh ingredients sourced directly from farms, celebrating the country’s rich culinary heritage.
If you are looking for a new sandwich experience, the Chacarero is definitely worth trying. Whether you are in Chile or abroad, preparing this sandwich at home is a great way to explore the flavors of Chilean cuisine.
Happy Chacarero Day!
