Ever since we moved to La Falda, we’ve been interested in finding a source of grass-fed beef. During the past decade many beef producers in Argentina switched from the long tradition of raising beef on pasture, to the US model of feedlots. This frees up land for additional soybean production to take advantage of the lucrative export market with China.
Recently we discovered that a small meat shop in the neighboring town of Huerta Grande sells beef raised on the Boyajian family ranch. The ranch is located several kilometers west of La Falda, and operated by Tomas, the husband of Hector’s cousin. Several weeks ago, Tomas introduced me to the owner of the meat shop, Sr. Santos, and we are delighted to have a local source of grass-fed beef.
Sr. Santos learned his trade by working in the meat department in a La Falda grocery store. He has been in business for himself for the past two decades.
Our favorite way to the meat shop is a route ascending through La Falda’s original barrio, Villa Eden, with early 20th century summer homes and mature trees.
From Villa Eden we follow the dirt road several kilometers along the base of the Sierras Chicas before descending into Huerta Grande. The upper part of Huerta Grande also has summer homes built in the early 1900's.
The excursion is a rewarding way to combine several objectives; a brisk hour walk along a scenic route, buying local, hormone-free, healthy beef, and supporting two family businesses.
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