The Chivito sandwich is a beloved Uruguayan dish renowned for its hearty and flavorful composition. Originating in Uruguay, it boasts a rich history intertwined with the country's culinary heritage. 

The sandwich features tender sliced steak, savory ham, creamy cheese, crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, and mayonnaise, all nestled between a soft bun. Sometimes, it's embellished with bacon and eggs, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

Legend has it that the Chivito sandwich was born in the 1940s when a customer at a Uruguayan restaurant requested a sandwich made with chivito meat (young goat). However, as chivito meat was unavailable at the time, the resourceful chef substituted it with tender beef steak, thus creating the iconic dish we know today.

Over the years, the Chivito sandwich has evolved into a symbol of Uruguayan cuisine, cherished both locally and internationally. Its irresistible combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide, offering a satisfying culinary experience that celebrates Uruguay's cultural heritage.

Ingredients:

- 200g beef steak (sirloin or ribeye), thinly sliced

- 4 slices of ham

- 4 slices of cheese (typically mozzarella or provolone)

- 4 slices of bacon (optional)

- 4 eggs (optional)

- 4 hamburger buns

- Lettuce leaves

- Tomato slices

- Mayonnaise

- Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Season the beef steak slices with salt and pepper.

2. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the steak slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until desired doneness. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Remove and set aside.

4. If using, fry the eggs to your liking in the skillet.

5. Toast the hamburger buns lightly.

6. Assemble the sandwiches: Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Layer with lettuce leaves, tomato slices, cooked steak, ham, cheese, bacon, and fried egg (if using). Top with the other half of the bun.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Chivito sandwich!

Nutrition Value:

1. Beef Steak (200g):

  - Calories: Approximately 380 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 50g

  - Fat: Approximately 18g

  - Sodium: Varies based on seasoning

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 120mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and other B vitamins.

  - Nutritional Benefit: High-quality protein source, essential for muscle repair and growth. Rich in iron, which helps transport oxygen in the blood and supports energy metabolism.

2. Ham (4 slices):

  - Calories: Approximately 60 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: Approximately 8g

  - Fat: Approximately 3g

  - Sodium: Varies based on processing, typically around 600mg per serving

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 20mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamins B6 and B12, niacin, phosphorus, and selenium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Good source of protein and B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12 which supports nerve function and DNA synthesis.

3. Cheese (4 slices):

  - Calories: Approximately 320 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 2g

  - Protein: Approximately 20g

  - Fat: Approximately 25g

  - Sodium: Approximately 600mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 80mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin A.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Excellent source of calcium for bone health. Provides protein and fat for satiety and energy.

4. Bacon (4 slices):

  - Calories: Approximately 180 kcal (varies based on thickness and type)

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 12g

  - Fat: Approximately 15g

  - Sodium: Approximately 600mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 40mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamins B1, B3, B6, and minerals like selenium and phosphorus.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Source of protein and fat, but should be consumed in moderation due to high saturated fat and sodium content.

5. Eggs (4):

  - Calories: Approximately 320 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g

  - Protein: Approximately 28g

  - Fat: Approximately 22g

  - Sodium: Approximately 280mg

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 860mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin D, vitamin B12, riboflavin, and selenium.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Excellent source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals. Provides choline, important for brain health.

6. Hamburger Buns (4):

  - Calories: Approximately 240 kcal per bun

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 45g per bun

  - Protein: Approximately 7g per bun

  - Fat: Approximately 3g per bun

  - Sodium: Approximately 400mg per bun

  - Cholesterol: Varies

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Typically enriched with iron, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and folate.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides carbohydrates for energy and some B vitamins, but often lacks significant nutrients compared to whole grain options.

7. Lettuce Leaves:

  - Calories: Approximately 5 kcal per leaf

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g per leaf

  - Protein: Approximately 0.5g per leaf

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 5mg per leaf

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate. Also provides small amounts of vitamin C and minerals like potassium and manganese.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Low in calories and carbohydrates, high in water content, and provides essential vitamins and minerals. Supports hydration and promotes overall health.

8. Tomato Slices:

  - Calories: Approximately 5 kcal per slice

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1g per slice

  - Protein: Approximately 0.2g per slice

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Low in calories and carbohydrates, high in vitamin C and other antioxidants. Supports immune function and heart health.

9. Mayonnaise:

  - Calories: Approximately 90 kcal per tablespoon

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.5g per tablespoon

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: Approximately 10g per tablespoon

  - Sodium: Approximately 90mg per tablespoon

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 5mg per tablespoon

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains small amounts of vitamin K and vitamin E.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides fat for flavor and texture, but should be consumed in moderation due to high calorie and fat content. Some varieties may contain healthy fats from sources like olive oil.

10. Salt and Pepper:

  - Calories: 0 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: Varies based on usage

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Vitamins and Minerals: None

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor to the dish, but should be used in moderation to control sodium intake.