It’s well known that Mexico stands out, among other things, for its gastronomy: it’s among the richest and most varied in the world. The type and variety of dishes prepared depend on the region and the crops available.
The wide variety of menus seems endless. And if we look north, there are also many options. Among northerners, there is a serious debate about which state offers the best barbecued meat in the country. The states in the top four are Coahuila, Nuevo León, Chihuahua, and Sonora.
The quality of the meat is associated with production, livestock management, animal care, and even their type of feeding and hydration. Even the type of climate determines this: it is said that arid conditions are better for top-quality meat.
Every weekend, even during the winter, northerners gather to enjoy this specialty in the company of family and friends. A major tourism event recently took place, where the world’s largest carne asada was prepared.
Its preparation requires a meticulous process.
Capital of Carne Asada
This award was achieved in February 2023. More than 2,150 grillers were present grilling meat at the same time. With this recognition, Hermosillo earned the title of capital of carne asada. Many grills were set up on an avenue where the meat was cooked simultaneously.
From traditional to the most modern and elegant, there is a wide variety of places in Hermosillo where you can enjoy this succulent dish. A good cut of beef can be accompanied by many sides. Depending on each person’s tastes, the way it is presented will depend on the person’s preferences.
In addition to Hermosillo, Sonorans also prefer to seek out carne asada in Nogales and Caborca. At the first site, they say you can find a very interesting fusion of Mexican and American cuisine, while in Caborca, it’s combined with seafood, creating a delicious combination.
Details to look for with the meat
Beef must come from an animal no less than three years old and weighing around 500 kilograms; its color is reddish in various shades, and its medium to high fat content depends on the breed and the animal’s diet. An arid or semi-arid climate improves its quality.
Among the meat qualities, you can find: optimal, meaning it has abundant marbling (abundant lumps of fat within the lean mass), which will enhance the flavor and juiciness of the meat; preferred, which has less marbling but still meets high quality standards.
This award was received in February 2023. More than 2,150 grillers were present grilling meat at the same time. With this recognition, Hermosillo earned the title of capital of roast beef.
Finally, there is the select range, which has a very uniform quality and is typically leaner than the highest quality grades. This type of cut is tender, has fewer specks of fat within the meat, and may lack some juiciness; it has less flavor than the optimum and preferred cuts.
Who’s Who in Production
Data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Government of the Republic indicate that although beef quality is disputed in the north, Veracruz, Jalisco, and San Luis Potosí lead the country in beef production.
According to the Ministry of Health, animal protein helps build defenses against disease and modulates the proper functioning of our bodies. It is the basis for the synthesis of organs, muscles, skin, bones, and blood. Worldwide, Mexico ranks sixth in beef production.
Recommendations for a juicy and flavorful roast beef
There are different qualities of meat, including many preparation styles. The type of meat to choose depends on your budget: ribeye, ribs, T-bone, etc. Marbling provides juiciness and flavor. When the meat comes into contact with high temperatures, the fat will melt, adding juiciness and flavor.
Less is more: some simply add salt to the meat, while others prepare a mixture of ingredients to marinate it; it’s a matter of taste and preference. If you choose to marinate the meat, let it rest for an hour in an airtight container with the mixture of ingredients.
For this sauce, it’s suggested to include lemon juice, fresh herbs, and spices to taste. The length of time the meat is cooked on the grill will depend on the seasoning, which should be clean and at a high temperature to seal the meat. Finally, the heat source is very important: using charcoal will give it a better flavor than using gas.
Source: meteored
