Conviviality without excess
Nico Fernandez
Nico Fernandez
Published on January 19, 2024
3 450 vues
★★★★ 4.0

Conviviality without excess

True sharing

In Argentina, the asado is the heart of our social life. It’s the time when we get together, where we discuss, where we share. But too often, this conviviality has become synonymous with excess: too much bread, too much alcohol, too many sweet desserts. At 45, I wanted to prove that we could be together and celebrate life without destroying our health. Conviviality without excess means focusing on the essentials: the quality of the food and the quality of the relationship. It’s a deeper, truer sharing.

Low-carb facilitates this conviviality. When we are not stunned by the digestion of starchy foods and sugar, we are more present to others. We have more energy to discuss, to laugh, to listen. The meal does not end with collective lethargy, but with a feeling of well-being and vitality. We leave the table light, with a clear mind. It is another way of living together, more respectful of oneself and others. The party doesn't need artifice to be beautiful. She just needs the truth.

The abundance of quality

We often confuse abundance and quantity. On my grill, abundance is found in the variety of cuts of meat, in the richness of the fats, in the freshness of the vegetables. We don't need to fill the plate with rice or bread to feel rich. True wealth is being able to eat an exceptional product, cooked with care. Low-carb teaches us to appreciate density. A small portion of something perfect feeds more than a mountain of something mediocre. It’s a lesson in elegance and moderation.

This measure brings great freedom. We no longer have to eat to the point of discomfort to feel full. We listen to our body, we savor every bite, and we stop when we are nourished. It is a form of respect for the food and for the work of the asador. Nothing is wasted, everything is honored. Conviviality becomes a quality exchange, not a consumption competition. It’s a more mature and enduring vision of the holiday. A vision that allows us to age in good health while continuing to share.

The pleasure of clarity

What a pleasure to wake up the day after an asado without a hangover or a heavy stomach! By choosing dry drinks and avoiding sugar, you preserve your mental clarity. We remember every discussion, every laugh. We are ready to enjoy the day that begins. Low-carb is not a punishment, it is a gift that we give to ourselves and to our friends. It's choosing to live each moment fully, without the fog of excess. This is the true joy of living, the one that lasts.

I see my friends changing too. They appreciate this new way of doing things. They feel better, they have more energy. The asado becomes a moment of regeneration, not destruction. We nourish each other, physically and spiritually. It is the magic of fire and consciousness. We rediscover the meaning of the word 'companion', the one with whom we share bread... or rather, in my case, the one with whom we share the best steak. It is a stronger bond because it is based on respect for life.

The transmission of joy

Ultimately, I want to convey this joy of happy sobriety. Show that we can be epicurean and responsible. That pleasure is not in forgetting oneself, but in being present with oneself. My grill is the center of this transmission. Each meal is a demonstration that health is tasty, that clarity is desirable, that conviviality is possible without excess. This is my contribution to a stronger and healthier Argentine culture. A culture that celebrates life in all its truth.

I will continue to light my fire, invite my friends, share my passion. Because there is nothing more beautiful than seeing happy faces and lively minds around a table. The fire crackles, the stars shine, and I feel rich in these moments of true sharing. Without excess, but with infinite intensity. That's Nico's asado. That's life.

Chef's recipes Nico Fernandez

Sautéed Shrimp with Chorizo and Garlic
Sautéed Shrimp with Chorizo and Garlic

Juicy shrimp sautéed with diced chorizo, garlic, and parsley; a quick, flavorful, and low-carb dish.

Tuna tartare with avocado and lemon
Tuna tartare with avocado and lemon

Fresh bluefin tuna tartare seasoned with lemon and olive oil, accompanied by creamy avocado; light, low-carb starter.

Foie gras mousse and fig confit
Foie gras mousse and fig confit

Creamy foie gras mousse served with a little low-sugar fig confit (very moderate portion); festive and rich starter.

Nico Fernandez Argentina

Chef Nico Fernandez

Argentina

Charcoal-Grill

High-heat grilling and simple sides, rooted in South American techniques adapted for keto.