National Dish Uruguay: Suprema Maryland (Recipe)
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Say hello to Suprema Maryland, one of Uruguay’s most comforting plates and a real crowd-pleaser. Tender chicken breast is baked beneath a velvety sauce of ham and melted cheese, creating a rich, satisfying dish that feels both homely and a little indulgent. It is the perfect way to discover the warmth and generosity of South American home cooking, and it comes together with surprisingly little fuss. Bring a taste of Montevideo straight to your own table.
About Suprema Maryland
Suprema Maryland is a much-loved national dish from Uruguay, prized above all for its delicious blend of flavours. It brings together juicy, tender chicken breast and a creamy sauce built from a harmonious mix of ham and cheese. The dish suits not only keen food lovers but anyone who simply enjoys good eating and wants to explore the rich variety of South American cuisine. Careful preparation and a few good-quality ingredients turn this meal into a truly memorable experience.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 chicken breast fillets (about 250g each)
- 100g ham (cooked ham works well)
- 100g grated cheese (such as mozzarella or Gouda)
- 200ml cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, to garnish
Shopping for the ingredients
To make a great Suprema Maryland, it is worth seeking out fresh, good-quality ingredients. Pop along to a trusted grocer or an organic supermarket to be sure the chicken and the cream are nice and fresh. Pay attention to the ham and cheese you choose too, as they are central to the flavour of the dish. And don’t forget some fresh herbs, which give the finished plate that extra something special.
Preparing the dish
A little preparation goes a long way towards the perfect Suprema Maryland. Begin by rinsing the chicken breast fillets and patting them dry. Slice the ham into thin strips or dice it, depending on how you would like to fold it into the dish. Have the grated cheese and the cream ready as well, so everything is close to hand once you start cooking and the process runs smoothly.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Brown the chicken breast fillets on both sides until golden and cooked through.
- Lift the chicken out of the pan and arrange it in an ovenproof dish.
- In the same pan, sauté the ham, then pour in the cream.
- Stir in the grated cheese and let it bubble gently until you have a creamy sauce.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 15 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Suprema Maryland is easy to adapt for a gluten-free and lactose-free diet. In place of ordinary cream, reach for a plant-based alternative such as soya or coconut cream. Be sure to choose gluten-free cheese and ham that are suitable for those prone to allergies. With these simple swaps, nothing stands between you and a thoroughly enjoyable meal.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan or vegetarian take on Suprema Maryland, swap the chicken breast for grilled tofu or seitan. Use plant-based ham and cheese made from nuts or soya, and build the creamy sauce with cashew cream for a similarly rich, indulgent result. With these changes, vegetarians and vegans alike can enjoy this wonderful dish without missing out.
More tips and tricks
To make Suprema Maryland even tastier, lift the sauce with a little garlic or onion. A pinch of warming spices such as paprika or nutmeg gives the dish a personal touch too. Take care not to overcook the chicken breasts so they stay lovely and juicy. It is also well worth experimenting with different cheeses to discover new flavour combinations.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Suprema Maryland is a versatile dish that is easy to tailor to your own preferences. Stir some vegetables such as spinach or peas into the sauce, for example, to add extra goodness and colour. You can scale the portions up or down to match your appetite simply by using more chicken breast. And if you like a bit of heat, a touch of chilli in the sauce will perk the whole thing up.
Ingredient substitutions
If you don’t have every ingredient to hand, there are plenty of alternatives to fall back on. Instead of chicken breast fillets, you could use chicken thighs or turkey breast. For a vegan option, aubergine prepared in much the same way works beautifully. The choice of cheese is just as flexible: try feta or parmesan to explore new directions in flavour, much as you might when cooking up Zucchini au Gratin.
Drink pairing ideas
Several drinks pair wonderfully with a tasty Suprema Maryland. A cold, crisp beer or a lively white wine both make ideal companions. For those steering clear of alcohol, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a glass of homemade lemonade to bring out the flavours of the dish. Have a play with different drinks to find the perfect match for your meal.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation plays its part in making Suprema Maryland all the more appealing. Serve the dish on a nicely dressed plate and garnish it with fresh parsley or basil. It goes well with colourful sides, such as a bright salad or crisp chips. Aim for colours on the plate that sit happily together, giving the dish real visual impact. For something sweet to finish, a little Pumpkin in Syrup rounds the meal off nicely.
A bit of history
Suprema Maryland has its origins in traditional Uruguayan cooking, which is heavily shaped by European influences. The use of chicken, cheese and ham reflects a love of hearty, generous fare. Passed down from generation to generation over the years, the dish has become something of a symbol of Uruguayan hospitality. Today it is enjoyed not only by locals but by visitors too, who savour it as part of an authentic culinary experience and a fine introduction to Uruguayan cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Suprema Maryland
Suprema Maryland is a true highlight of Uruguayan cuisine, winning hearts with its combination of chicken breast, ham and cheese. With its straightforward preparation steps and the freedom to adjust the recipe to your own taste, it is a dish that suits almost any occasion. Whether for a festive dinner or a relaxed weekend lunch, Suprema Maryland is sure to delight you and your guests alike. Give this delicious speciality a try and let the flavours of South America win you over.
