Lomito Completo (Argentine Steak Sandwich)

When it comes to fast food, one of the most classic Argentine sandwiches on offer at the equivalent of an American “greasy spoon” is the lomito completo, a filet mignon steak sandwich piled high with toppings. A basic lomito generally includes lettuce and tomato, but make it a completo and you’ll get a sandwich with the works: ham, cheese and a fried egg on top.

The Costanera Sur, a promenade alongside the ecological reserve in the Buenos Aires neighborhood of Puerto Madero, is sprinkled with small carts of somewhat questionable hygiene standards (isn’t that part of the charm?) serving up choripanes (sausage sandwiches), sándwiches de bondiola (pork sandwiches) and lomitos. Perhaps it’s the fresh air—or the extra grease on the grill—but the stands at the Costanera Sur turn out some of the best lomitos in Buenos Aires.

While the lomito can be found at restaurants and street carts, it’s also easy to make at home. So, if you’re looking for something a bit more substantial than the typical American burger, throw together a satisfying lomito completo. You can also serve the lomito as a platter without the bread, if desired. Just don’t forget the french fries!

Lomito Completo

Yields 2 sandwiches

Ingredients

2 (4 oz.) filet mignon steaks, sliced ¼-inch thick

salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 slices deli ham

4 slices mild cheese such as American

2 fried eggs

2 large rolls, sliced

4 lettuce leaves

1 small tomato, sliced

mayonnaise, to taste

Directions

Season the filet mignon steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. In a greased skillet or on a griddle, cook the steaks over medium heat for 5 minutes on each side or to desired degree of doneness. Just before removing the steaks from the skillet, place the slices of ham and cheese on top of the beef to warm them. Remove the steaks from the pan and allow them to rest while you prepare the fried eggs.

To serve, place the steak with the ham and cheese on the bottom of the roll. Top with fried egg, lettuce, tomato, and the other half of the roll, smeared generously with mayonnaise. Accompany with french fries.

[Photo credits, all images used under Creative Commons license: rhyndman, aokettun, and Ronsel]

Other recipes by Katie:

Panqueques de Dulce de Leche (Dulce de Leche Crepes)
Pasta Frola (Quince Fruit Tart)
Empanadas Árabes
Tarta de Pollo y Choclo (Chicken and Corn Pie)
Coquitos (Coconut Macaroons)
Tortas Fritas
Humita en Olla (Creamy Stewed Corn)
Bifes a la Criolla
Matambre a la Pizza

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