9 de Julio - Argentine Independence Day!!!

Today we decided to get together with friends to celebrate  Argentine Independence Day.  We enjoyed a nice (albeit not very healthy) breakfast of tortas fritas (fried bread dough which is literally called "fried cakes") with mate - the traditional Argentine tea. 

We went all out and made a traditional Argentine dish called "Locro."  Locro is the national dish for many South American countries but each place offers it's unique twist.  It is customary to eat this stew for some of the national holidays.  Needless to say, the recipe we used for this particular argentine Locro was amazing (the recipe varies by region within the country as well).  It is an incredibly delicious stew made with cracked corn, beans, pumpkin, sausages, meat, bacon, onions, and spices.  It's sometimes served with quiquirimichi which is a red-hot sauce drizzled on top and fresh bread.  Mmmm....delicious!  Some good friends came over to join in the celebrations and a good time was had by all!  Wish you could have been here with us!