Carne da Charneca

This meat is taken from Preta breed cattle raised in the municipalities of Santarém, Setúbal, Évora, and Portalegre. The meat is extremely tender and juicy, and it ranges in from light pink for veal to dark red for beef.

The texture of the meat is compact and firm, with white or pale yellow fat marbled throughout. The animals graze on wild grasses, herbs, straw, and hay, which is reflected in the flavor of the meat. The meat is best when roasted or grilled, and it is an essential ingredient in the preparation of many traditional dishes.