Behind the Seasoning: Chimichurri Churrasco

The party never stops in Rio de Janeiro, and neither does the flavor of Chimichurri Churrasco, our summer Spice ‘n Easy. Overlooking Rio (atop a literal mountain) is a 125-foot-tall statue known as Cristo Redentor or Christ the Redeemer. Each year, 2 million people visit this wonder of the world - which took 9 years and 6 million soapstone tiles to build.

The statue represents peace and love, and inspired us to create a dish that you and your #summersquad will love to pieces. It's also big and bold just like the flavors of our Rio-inspired Spice 'n Easy mix.

What is Chimichurri Churrasco?

This Brazilian barbecue dish celebrates summer and all of the cookouts, potlucks, parties, and backyard soirées that come with it. Chimichurri (an herbaceous sauce and marinade) Churrasco (Portuguese name for grilled beef or meat) is the bold, vibrant, and versatile dish that will liven up any summertime spread. But honestly, that's just the tip of the iceberg.

The history of chimichurri is packed with lore, with various colonizers claiming some credit. But the most likely is that it comes from the Quechua peoples, an Indigenous population from northern Argentina, and is a true invention of the region. Churrasco is popular throughout South America, and can use a variety of meats. Some people will tell you that churrasco isn't just a food, it's an experience.

What Does Chimichurri Churrasco Taste Like?

Can you tell we’re excited for summer? More specifically, summer grilling! We’ve already donned our cheeky aprons, our grills are preheated, and we’re clacking our tongs, dad-style. Go ahead, listen to this description of the flavors in Chimichurri Churrasco and tell us you didn’t just start applying sunscreen.

Doubling as a sauce and a marinade, this blend of fruity, smoky chipotle chiles, juicy pineapple, sunny turmeric, and savory shallots join fresh herbs, sweet agave, and refreshing citrus for the ultimate splash of summer flavor. 

What Other Flavors Pair Well With Chimichurri Churrasco?

When it comes to flavor pairings, consider using the ingredients that are already in your chimichurri to flavor other dishes you're serving. For example, flavor rice with a touch of acidity and herbs for arroz con cilantro (cilantro-lime rice anyone). Or use your lime juice and agave to whip up a cocktail (hello, Margarita).

How to Use Chimichurri Churrasco

What do you need to add to this mix to make this marinated masterpiece? Steak, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and agave. That’s it! Don’t have cilantro? Try parsley. Or better yet, a combo of the two. Don’t have lime juice? Try lemon or red wine vinegar– anything to give it that bright, acidic bite! Same with the agave. Honey works just as well. This sauce (and marinade!) is so low stress, you can use whatever you have on hand and it will still turn out amazing.

Not feeling steak for dinner? Great news. Turns out you can chimichurr-ify just about anything. Try it on chicken, salmon, corn on the cob, and grilled pineapple. Use it as a dip for fresh bread. For something different (but not bad) you can even drizzle it over fresh fruit or vanilla ice cream (we tried it and it was interesting!).

Where and How to Buy Chimichurri Churrasco

Chimichurri Churrasco Spice 'n Easy is available from Savory Spice online or in store for a limited time this summer. Order online for convenience, or pop into your local Savory Spice store. While you’re at it, grab our new Carne Asada Spice 'n Easy for a flavor fiesta.

Later this summer, another Savory summer favorite will also return: Mexican Street Corn Seasoning. Stock up on grilling Spice 'n Easy mixes and look for Mexican Street Corn Seasoning to hit the shelves on the first day of summer, and prepare to pair your steak with perfectly seasoned elotes!

Recipes Using Chimichurri Currasco

Ok, we think this recipe stands alone. But if you're pulling up an extra chair or two, expand the meal with a shareable side. Try electric orange Brazilian-Style Cheese Buns, inspired by traditional Brazilian pão de queijo. Follow it up with a little something sweet. Cookies & Cream Brigadieros are a Savory spiced spin on a classic Brazilian treat. Then wash everything down with a tangy Ruby Red Mojito. 

Whether you’re leisurely picnicking at the feet of a giant statue or rushing to get a weeknight meal on the table, Chimichurri Churrasco Spice ‘n Easy is ready to help you spend less time cooking and more time connecting around the table. It’s only here for a limited time, so be sure to stock up before it chimi-scurries away! 

Share your best BBQ dishes and tag us on Instagram (@savoryspiceshop). For even more internationally inspired seasonings, shop our World Flavors selections.