Description
The Carnalentejana PDO is beef from the Alentejana breed of cow, a native species to be found in most of the Alentejo area.
Production Area
Carnalentejana PDO is produced in the districts of Beja, Évora, Portalegre and Setúbal, and parts of the districts of Santarém, Lisbon and Castelo Branco.
Production Method
these cows are extensively reared, about 1 animals per hectare. They are fed on hay and straw, the remains of the harvest and they graze in the fields. This natural diet gives the beef its characteristic flavour.
Appearance and Flavour
Carnalentejana PDO varies from a red to dark red colour, with evenly distributed but not excessive fat, with a pH factor of less than 6 and a fine texture. It has a full flavour and is very succulent.
History
In the past the Alentejana bull, due to its size, was used to work the clayey soil of the Alentejo area and was fed on straw and the cereals remaining from the harvest. Most of the animals were slaughtered when adult and just a few were kept for breeding and working the fields. The origin of Carnalentejana PDO is linked to the use of this animal and the advent of the mechanisation of agriculture, which, in Portugal took place at the end of the Second World War. The system of rearing was modified and cows began to be bred for their meat.
Gastronomy
Carnalentejana PDO is stored at a low temperature, refrigerated at 0-2°C. It is never frozen unless this is done immediately, at source, at the time of butchering. Once bought, the meat can only be kept in the fridge for a few days. Today Carnalentejana PDO is used in many Portuguese recipes, especially assados and estufados as well as the so-called cozido de grão, cozido com legumes and guisados. As it is very full-flavoured this beef does not require complex preparation and can be served simply with just a little salt, extra virgin olive oil and a few herbs such as parsley.
Marketing
This beef is sold as Carnalentejana PDO in three categories: Carne de Vitela which comes from cows slaughtered between six and nine months old, weighing less than 150 kg; Carne de Novilha from cows slaughtered between 12 and 29 months old, weighing less than 300 kg; Carne de Novilho from bulls slaughtered between 14 and 24 months old and weighing no less than 200 kg. It is sold whole, in halves, minced, or in prepacked and clearly identified and labelled cuts and joints.
Distinctive Features
The Alentejana breed of cow is a medium to large sized, strong and muscular animal and is dark red in colour. In 1979 the veterinary services authority instituted a genealogical table for Alentejana cattle in order to protect, maintain and improve this native breed from which Carnalentejana PDO is obtained.
