Argentine Asado (Grilled Beef Ribs)

Asado is a religion in Argentina. It's not about marinades, but meat quality and fire mastery. The secret is embers: meat is cooked by radiant heat from coals, never flames. Coarse salt is the only seasoning needed.
🕒 Prep Time 30 mins
🍳 Cook Time 1 hr
Total Time 1 hr 30 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 780 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Argentine

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Grill
  • Hardwood (Oak/Beech)
  • Tongs

Instructions

1

Burn wood down to white embers. Clean grate.

Tip: Flames burn the outside; embers cook the inside.
2

Salt meat heavily.

Tip: Big meat needs big salt.
3

Optional: rub with oil/garlic/herb mix.

Tip: Oil conducts heat.
4

Grill bone-side down first. Keep hand 5 secs over heat for temp check.

Tip: Bone conducts heat gently.
5

Cook slow. Flip only once after 20-30 mins.

Tip: Slow render is key.
6

Rest 15 mins.

Tip: Juices redistribute.

Recipe FAQ

Charcoal?
Hardwood is best for flavor. If using charcoal, wait till white.
Doneness?
Argentines eat it medium-well, but stick to your preference (130F for medium-rare).

Ingredients

  • 4-5 lbs Beef Short Ribs (flanken style) or Flank Steak
  • 3 tbsp Coarse Sea Salt
  • 3 cloves Garlic (optional)
  • 3 tbsp Olive Oil (optional)
  • 2 sprigs Rosemary (optional)
  • 1 pile Hardwood for fire