As the 2026 World Cup heads towards the quarter finals, the drama is intensifying both on and off the pitch. Across Connect Catering's kitchens, our chefs are bringing the tournament to life by creating dishes inspired by all 48 nations that qualified, celebrating the rich flavours and cultures represented on football's biggest stage.

With every match now carrying the weight of elimination, the tournament has already delivered plenty of memorable moments, from established footballing nations continuing their pursuit of glory to debut teams making history.

One nation still firmly in the spotlight is Argentina. One of the most successful teams in World Cup history, Argentina have featured in all but four tournaments and remain a firm favourite among many football fans. To celebrate their rich food culture, our chefs have recreated one of the country's most iconic dishes: Asado Beef with Chimichurri and Roasted Potatoes.

Asado sits at the heart of Argentine cuisine, combining high-quality beef grilled over an open flame with vibrant chimichurri. The freshness of the herbs perfectly balances the richness of the meat, creating a comforting and flavour-packed dish that is ideal for match day dining.

Ingredients

Beef:

• 6kg beef sirloin or rump, portion cut
• 150ml olive oil
• Salt and black pepper

Chimichurri:

• 200g parsley, finely chopped
• 50g garlic, minced
• 100ml red wine vinegar
• 200ml olive oil
• 10g oregano
• Salt and pepper

Roasted Potatoes:

• 5kg potatoes, cut into wedges
• 150ml oil
• Salt

Method

1. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper and allow it to come to room temperature before cooking.
2. Grill over a high heat, turning regularly to achieve an even caramelised crust while maintaining moisture.
3. Rest the meat thoroughly before slicing across the grain.
4. Combine the parsley, garlic, vinegar, oil, oregano, salt and pepper to make the chimichurri. Allow to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Toss the potatoes with oil and salt, then roast at 180°C until golden and crisp.
6. Slice the beef and serve with roasted potatoes and chimichurri.

Vegetarian Alternative: Grilled aubergine or portobello mushrooms with chimichurri.

Allergens: Contains none of the 14 major allergens.

Another standout story from this year's tournament has been Cape Verde. Although their World Cup journey has come to an end, the debutants captured the imagination of football fans around the world with an impressive first appearance on the games biggest stage.

With a population of around 600,000, the Blue Sharks became one of the smallest nations ever to qualify for a FIFA World Cup - an extraordinary achievement and a proud moment in African football. 

To celebrate their historic debut, our chefs recreated Cape Verde's national dish, Cachupa. This slow-cooked stew, made with corn, beans, vegetables and meat, is deeply rooted in the island's culture. Its long cooking time creates rich, layered flavours and a hearty, satisfying meal, perfect for enjoying alongside the drama of the tournament. 

Ingredients

Cachupa:

• 2kg coarse corn, soaked overnight
• 2kg beans, such as kidney or butter beans, cooked
• 4kg mixed meats, such as chicken, pork and sausage
• 500g onion
• 100g garlic
• 500g sweet potato, diced
• 300g squash or pumpkin
• 4L chicken stock
• 100ml oil
• Salt and pepper

Method

1. Bring the soaked corn to the boil and simmer until partially tender.
2. In a separate pot, brown the meats in oil to develop colour, then remove and reserve.
3. Cook the onions and garlic until softened, then return the meats to the pot.
4. Add the corn, beans, vegetables and stock, combining thoroughly.
5. Simmer gently for 2-3 hours until all components are tender and integrated.
6. Stir occasionally, adjusting liquid and seasoning as required.
7. The finished dish should be thick, hearty and well combined.
8. Allow to rest slightly before serving to deepen the flavour.

Vegetarian Alternative: Vegetable cachupa with beans, corn and root vegetables.

Allergens: Contains none of the 14 major allergens.

From Argentina's legendary asado to Cape Verde's comforting cachupa, for us, the World Cup is as much a celebration of culture and cuisine as it is football. Throughout the tournament, our chefs are using international events to introduce diners to flavours from around the globe, creating memorable food experiences that bring people together.

If you're looking for impartial advice and guidance around the catering provision in your workplace, please do not hesitate to get in touch.