Fainá is a culinary specialty of Uruguay and Argentina. It is a thin flatbread made from chickpea flour that is often served as a side dish for asado, the typical South American grilled meat dish.Fainá has an interesting history, dating back to the arrival of Genoese immigrants to Argentina and Uruguay in the 19th century. These immigrants brought with them the tradition of making chickpea farinata, a thin flatbread made from chickpea flour, typical of Liguria. In Argentina and Uruguay, chickpea farinata was modified slightly, becoming thinner and crispier, and taking the name Fainá.Fainá is prepared with chickpea flour, water, olive oil, salt and pepper. The dough is mixed and left to rest for at least half an hour, then it is baked in the oven or on a hot pan. Fainá has a soft, creamy texture on the inside, but is crispy and slightly burnt on the outside.Fainá is often served as a side dish for asado, but it can also be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. It is often accompanied by chimichurri sauce, a spicy sauce made from garlic, parsley, chili and vinegar. Fainá is a popular specialty in Uruguay and Argentina, and is a delicious culinary discovery for visitors who want to discover local South American specialties.
