Authentic Argentine Provoleta Recipe

Ingredients

1 large slice of Provolone cheese (about 200 grams)
1 tablespoon of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of chili flakes
2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 crusty baguette, for serving
Optional: cherry tomatoes and green olives for garnish

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit).
Place the slice of Provolone cheese in an ovenproof dish that's just a bit larger than the cheese slice.
Sprinkle the dried oregano, chili flakes, chopped garlic, and half of the chopped parsley over the cheese.
Drizzle the olive oil on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Sprinkle the rest of the parsley on top.
Serve warm with slices of the crusty baguette. Garnish with cherry tomatoes and green olives if desired.

Tools for making

Ovenproof dish - A dish that is safe to use in the oven and is slightly larger than the slice of Provolone cheese.
Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the garlic and parsley.
Cutting board - A sturdy surface for chopping ingredients.
Oven - A kitchen appliance used for baking the Provoleta.
Baking tray - A tray or sheet pan to place the ovenproof dish on.
Serving platter - A dish or platter for presenting the Provoleta.
Bread knife - A serrated knife for slicing the crusty baguette.

Recipe variations

Adding sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top of the Provolone cheese before baking.
Adding cooked bacon or ham slices on top of the cheese for a meaty variation.
Using different types of cheese such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Gouda instead of Provolone.
Adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
Serving the Provoleta with a side of chimichurri sauce for a tangy twist.
Using gluten-free bread or crackers for a gluten-free option.
Adding a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness.
Experimenting with different types of spices or seasonings, such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.

Recipe overview

Embody the vibrant flavors of Argentina with this simple yet delectable Provoleta recipe. Provoleta is a traditional Argentinian dish, starring a slice of Provolone cheese baked until it's delightfully bubbly and golden. Enhanced with the robust flavors of oregano, chili flakes, garlic, and fresh parsley, this dish delivers a kick that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, Provoleta is best enjoyed with crusty baguette slices, allowing you to savor every last bit of melted cheese. Optional cherry tomatoes and green olives garnish add a refreshing touch to this warm, comforting dish. Expect to be transported to the heart of Argentina with every bite!

Common questions

How long does it take to make Provoleta? It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to bake.
Can I use a different type of cheese? While Provolone is traditionally used for Provoleta, you can experiment with other types of cheese that melt well, such as mozzarella or cheddar.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano? Yes, you can use fresh oregano instead of dried. Use about three times the amount of fresh oregano compared to dried oregano.
Can I make Provoleta on the stovetop instead of baking it in the oven? Yes, you can make Provoleta on a stovetop grill or in a cast iron skillet. Simply melt the cheese over medium heat until it becomes bubbly and slightly golden.
Can I add other toppings to Provoleta? Absolutely! Provoleta is versatile, and you can customize it to your liking. Some popular additions include sliced tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions.
Can I make Provoleta ahead of time? While Provoleta is best enjoyed fresh and melty, you can prepare the cheese and seasonings ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply bake or grill the cheese until melted and golden.

Serving dishes and utensils

Ovenproof dish - A dish that can withstand high oven temperatures and is suitable for baking the Provoleta.
Cheese grater - If you prefer to grate your own Provolone cheese instead of buying pre-sliced cheese.
Chopping board - For chopping the garlic and parsley.
Sharp knife - To finely chop the garlic and parsley.
Oven mitts - To protect your hands when handling the hot dish from the oven.
Serving platter - A plate or platter to serve the Provoleta on.
Bread knife - For slicing the crusty baguette.
Small bowls - Optional, for serving cherry tomatoes and green olives as garnish.

Origin stories

In the heart of Argentina, where the Pampas kiss the sky and the scent of grilling meat lingers in the air, Provoleta finds its origin. This traditional Argentine dish is a staple at any asado, an Argentine barbecue, where the flames dance and the gauchos gather to share stories. Provoleta is the country's take on Italian provolone cheese, paying tribute to the significant Italian influence on Argentine culture owing to immigration in the 19th and 20th centuries. This cheese, melted until it's bubbling, golden, and gooey, is often served with a generous sprinkle of oregano and a hint of spicy chili, a nod to the Argentine love for bold, robust flavors. So, when you dive into a plate of Provoleta, you're not just tasting a dish, you're savouring a piece of Argentine history, a melting pot of cultural influences, and the spirit of the Argentine asado.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.