Provoleta

Provoleta

Provoleta (proh-voh-LEH-tah)

Grilled Provolone Cheese

Prep Time 5 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 312 kcal

A thick slice of provolone cheese grilled on the parrilla until the outside is golden and crispy while the inside becomes molten and stretchy, finished with oregano and chili flakes.

Nutrition & Info

310 kcal per serving
Protein 22.0g
Carbs 2.0g
Fat 24.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ dairy

Equipment Needed

grill or cast iron skillet spatula

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cut the provolone into thick round slices about two centimeters thick. The cheese must be thick enough to hold its shape on the grill without melting through.

  2. 2

    Place the cheese directly on a hot grill or in a preheated cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook without moving for about four to five minutes until the bottom forms a golden crust.

  3. 3

    Sprinkle oregano and red pepper flakes over the top of the cheese while the bottom continues to crisp.

  4. 4

    When the cheese begins to bulge slightly and the edges turn golden, it is ready. Do not flip. The bottom should be crispy while the top is just beginning to melt.

  5. 5

    Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately on a small plate or wooden board, cutting into it while still hot and stretchy.

💡

Did You Know?

Provoleta is always the first thing placed on the grill at an Argentine asado. It serves as an appetizer while the meats slowly cook, and its readiness signals that the coals are at perfect temperature.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • grill or cast iron skillet
  • spatula

The Story Behind Provoleta

Provoleta emerged from the Italian immigrant communities of Buenos Aires and Rosario in the mid-20th century. Italian settlers brought their tradition of provolone cheese, but the Argentine twist of grilling it directly on the parrilla was a local innovation that married Italian dairy craft with the gaucho grilling culture. The dish became an inseparable part of the asado ritual, always served first as a communal appetizer that builds anticipation for the main meats to come.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed first course at an asado, while meats cook 📜 Origins: Mid-20th century, Italian-Argentine fusion

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