Great Products Argentina
Writes: Laura Litvin (@laulitvin)
Imagine a rocky and colorful geography. Fertile valleys crossed by rivers and streams. A mountain range (like that of the Wind), which frames a unique landscape. Imagine also the heights of different volcanoes, such as the tromen, ready to climb.
This is the north of the Neuquén province, In the Patagonia, a territory that treasures few known attractions with numerous alternatives for travelers passionate about nature: bicycle rides, horseback riding, tracking, sport fishing, archaeological tourism and more. But not only that, gastronomy is as important as the incredible landscapes it offers.
Creole chivito from the north of Neuquén, a flavor with history
The head city of this region is Chos malal, 403 km from the capital of Neuquén. Far away and long ago, here they developed indigenous populations who lived off their animals. Later, the Spanish introduced the goats, which over time became a fundamental part. Of the economic, social and religious life of the natives. Thus was born the current Creole goat that by tradition, is consumed every time a family has something to celebrate. But it is not just one more meal.
The culture of transhumance
El goat it is considered an emblem of local identity. Is in Chos malal where every year the National Chivito Festival. Their upbringing is the result of very ancient cultural practices that were passed down for generations.
Every year, for as long as there is time, hundreds of herders pass cattle from the low fields in winter to the mountain ranges. They look for tender and abundant food for the animals. This transit is known as migration and it is the synthesis of the linking of a geographical region, a specific production system, a race and the know-how of a people.
All these characteristics made it possible that in 2010, the Creole goat from the north of Neuquén was recognized with his DOC (the first Argentine food to achieve this distinction).
Wild meat and Patagonian wines
As a result of the migration, goat eat rustic pastures and walk freely on the mountain slopes. His lean meat it preserves a layer of fat that melts when cooked. Whether grilled, grilled or baked in clay. Provides richness to its characteristics wild notes. There will be nothing better than a buen Malbec or a Merlot from the province, a country bread and a spicy sauce to achieve a bite of glory.
