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Chivito

The Chivito is widely considered the king of sandwiches, originating from Uruguay and celebrated for its towering layers of high-protein ingredients. Slices of tender rib steak are seared quickly and paired with savoury boiled ham, crispy pancetta and melted cheese. The addition of a rich garlic aioli and a runny fried egg creates a luxurious texture that balances the salt-cured meats perfectly.

Designed for those seeking a hearty, homemade meal, this satisfying sandwich is packed with flavour and nutrients. While traditionally served with a side of chips, it is substantial enough to be enjoyed on its own as a filling weekend lunch or a post-workout dinner. Using fresh Boston lettuce and vine-ripened tomatoes adds a crisp, refreshing finish to every bite.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Chivito

  • 1 boneless rib steak, 450g , sliced horizontally into 4 thin steaks (you can ask the butcher to do this)

  • Coarse salt

  • 4 sandwich rolls

  • 120ml aioli

  • Four 1/8-inch-thick slices pancetta

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 4 large eggs

  • 4 slices boiled ham (about 110g )

  • 110g queso blanco or Monterey Jack, sliced 1/4 inch thick

  • 4 Boston lettuce leaves

  • 2 tomatoes, sliced

  • 2 Roasted Peppers

Pound the steaks lightly with a meat mallet until they are evenly about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle with salt to taste.

Split the rolls and spread aioli on both halves; set aside.

Heat a chapa or a two-burner cast-iron griddle over medium-high heat. As it is heating, crisp the pancetta on it, turning once; set aside. When the chapa is hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on the surface, add the steaks and cook, without moving, for 2 minutes. Turn and cook for another minute, or until done to taste.

Meanwhile heat the olive oil until it shimmers, then fry the eggs until the whites are cooked but the yolks are still runny.

Place a steak on the bottom half of each of the rolls and top with a slice each of ham, cheese, and crisp pancetta and a fried egg. Cover the other halves with the lettuce, tomatoes, and roasted pepper, and close the sandwiches. Slice in half and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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