Food to Share: Barbecue and Asado

Do you ever eat barbecue? Think about the ways in which barbecue is typically prepared and eaten in the United States. What is the same and what is different about barbecue in the United States and asado in South America? Use the blank Venn diagram below as a model and copy it into your notebook to compare and contrast American barbecue and South American asado. Click on the Show Answer button below to compare your responses with some sample answers.

1 answer

Certainly! Here's a comparison between American barbecue and South American asado that you can use to fill in your Venn diagram:

American Barbecue:

  • Typically involves cooking meat low and slow over indirect heat, often with wood or charcoal.
  • Styles vary regionally (e.g., Kansas City, Texas, North Carolina), each with its own flavors, sauces, and cooking methods.
  • Often includes a variety of meats such as ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken.
  • BBQ sauces are commonly used, with sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.
  • Side dishes often include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and cornbread.
  • Usually served in a more casual setting, often at outdoor festivals or gatherings.

South American Asado:

  • Involves grilling meat directly over an open flame or embers, often using a grill called a “parrilla.”
  • Focuses on the quality of the meat, with less emphasis on marinades and sauces.
  • Commonly features beef, but can also include other meats like pork, chicken, and lamb.
  • Minimal seasoning, usually just salt, allowing the natural flavors of the meat to shine through.
  • Accompaniments may include chimichurri sauce, bread, and various grilled vegetables.
  • Frequently enjoyed as a social event, often lasting for several hours and involving family and friends.

Similarities:

  • Both are social culinary traditions that emphasize gathering, sharing food, and enjoying a communal experience.
  • Both feature a variety of meats and involve grilling over open flames.
  • Both cuisines have regional variations and styles influenced by local cultures and traditions.

Feel free to use this information to create your Venn diagram in your notebook!