CARNE MARINHOA - DOP
Type
Carne de bovino
Description
Very tender, succulent meat obtained from the Marinhoa breed of cattle, which is characterised by its corpulence and long muzzle. The colour of Marinhoa meat varies from pale pink in veal to dark red in beef; it has a firm consistency, and is slightly moist and therefore succulent. The colour of the fat also varies between white and yellowish, depending on the age of the animal. The meat is sold as follows: — Veal — carcasses or cuts from animals slaughtered up to the age of 8 months. Carcass weight between 70 kg and 180 kg. — Beef — carcasses or cuts from animals slaughtered between 8 and 12 months of age. Carcass weight up to 240 kg. — Male or female bovine animal — carcasses or cuts from males or females slaughtered between the age of 12 and 30 months. Carcass weight of over 180 kg. — Cow — carcasses or cuts from female animals over the age of 30 months. Carcass weight of over 220 kg. — Bull — carcass or pieces from male animals over the age of 30 months. Carcass weight up to 220 kg.
History
The first references to this breed are by Silvestre Bernardo Lima stating that Marinhão "...is the name that designates the cattle that produces, raises and breeds, works and fattens throughout the Beira Mar district of Aveiro and Coimbra, (...), in the lands of Gandra and the Marinhas".
Instructions for use
Several dishes of Portuguese cuisine such as stews, in particular the oven-roasted meat and the grilled loaf are appreciated.
Commercial presentation
It can be presented in carcasses, in pieces packed in a vacuum or in slices packed in suitable packaging.
Conservation conditions / Durability
Refrigerated up to +7ºC or in vacuum up to +3ºC, respecting the expiration dates stipulated by law for Beef.
Availability throughout the year
Bibliography/Source
Texto e fotos extraídos de, “Produtos Tradicionais Portugueses”, Ministério da Agricultura, do Desenvolvimento Rural e das Pescas, Secretaria de Estado do Desenvolvimento Rural, Direcção-Geral de Desenvolvimento Rural, Lisboa 2001, Coordenadora Geral – Ana Soeiro
