Navigating Argentine Cuisine with a Corn Allergy: Your Essential Guide

Argentine cuisine is a vibrant celebration of flavors, from sizzling asado to decadent dulce de leche. However, if you have a corn allergy, navigating traditional dishes can be challenging due to hidden corn derivatives. Here’s how to savor Argentina’s culinary delights safely.

Common Corn-Based Ingredients in Argentine Dishes

Corn (maíz) appears in many Argentine staples:

• Humitas: Steamed corn husk wraps filled with creamed corn.
• Tamales: Often made with corn masa (dough).
• Empanadas: Some fillings or dough may contain corn flour or starch.
• Polenta: A cornmeal-based side dish.
• Desserts: Alfajores or pastelitos may use cornstarch in fillings or dough.

Hidden Corn Culprits

Watch for:

• Cornstarch (maicena): Used to thicken sauces, soups, or desserts.
• Corn oil: Common in frying and dressings.
• Malt extract (derived from corn): Found in bread, beer, or baked goods.

Safe Dishes to Enjoy

• Asado: Grilled meats like beef, chicken, or chorizo (check for marinades).
• Provoleta: Grilled provolone cheese with herbs.
• Ensalada Mixta: Simple green salads (confirm no corn-oil dressings).
• Milanesa: Breaded meat cutlets (verify breading is wheat-based).
• Fruit-Based Desserts: Fresh fruit or queso y dulce (cheese with jam).

Tips for Dining Out

1. Use the mm food App: Scan menus to identify corn ingredients and get real-time translations.
2. Ask Detailed Questions: Confirm preparation methods with staff and emphasize your allergy.
3. Opt for Simpler Dishes: Grilled meats and fresh vegetables are often safer.
4. Bring Allergy Cards: Use mm food’s customizable cards in Spanish to communicate restrictions.

With preparation and the mm food app, you can savor Argentina’s rich cuisine confidently—no corn surprises!