Argentina and Texas fans debate beef quality during World Cup
8 reported
A debate over beef quality has emerged as Argentina fans travel to Texas for the World Cup. The discussion centers on which region produces the best steaks and how to prepare the meat. Texas ranks first in U.S. beef production, while Argentina ranks sixth globally, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Argentine chef Carlos Eduardo Barahona, who has lived in Texas since 1998, argued that Argentine beef is unbeatable due to its grass-fed, leaner texture and earthy flavors. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller countered that U.S. beef, particularly from Texas, is superior, noting that Texas has helped improve Argentine cattle genetics through breeding stock sales. Some fans, like Argentine Gonzalo Herrera, said they see little difference between the two, while others, like Fernando Garcia Morillo, prefer Argentine traditions of using only salt on steak. The debate reflects cultural pride in steak preparation, with Argentine restaurants in Dallas serving fans during the tournament.
What’s reported
Texas ranks first in U.S. beef production; the U.S. is second globally to Brazil.
Argentina ranks sixth globally in beef production, per the USDA.
Argentine beef is mostly grass-fed, resulting in leaner meat with earthy flavors.
Texan beef is predominantly grain-fed, with more marbling and a sweeter flavor.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said Texas has sold semen, embryos, and breeding stock to Argentina to improve cattle genetics.
Argentine chef Carlos Eduardo Barahona, living in Texas since 1998, stated Argentine beef is unbeatable.
Argentine fan Gonzalo Herrera said he does not see a massive difference between the beefs.
Argentine fan Fernando Garcia Morillo said he orders steak with only salt in the U.S. and loves U.S. meat.
Key figures
Carlos Eduardo Barahona, Argentine chef living in Texas since 1998
Sid Miller, Texas Agriculture Commissioner
Gonzalo Herrera, Argentine fan
Emmanuel Tobon, assistant manager at Corrientes 348 Argentinian Steakhouse in Dallas
Fernando Garcia Morillo, Argentine from Buenos Aires living near Miami
Sources: NPR
