September 8, 2012

Going to market in Adrogué, Argentina

Our group signed up for a cooking class with Teresita (http://www.try2cook.com/Cooking-classes-in-Buenos-Aires.html ), a retired elementary school teacher with specializations in maths and science for grades 5 and 6.  Her husband, Raoul, recently retired as a medical doctor with specialization in family practice.  They built a new home in Adrogué, placing emphasis on a very large kitchen with ample room for a large butcher's block where classes can work, and on a dining room where seven of us sat most comfortably with the three hosts.

We took a suburban train to Adrogué, passing through some depressed areas before reaching this delightful community, which was originally built during the yellow fever problems, and this area was outside the danger.

After meeting each other,Teresita took us on a guided tour of the town's local markets, taking time to point out local foods of interest.  The first market was set up in a residential street.  The quality of the food appeared to be rather better than what many stores offer in the capital city.









We were intrigued by the round zucchini, which would be served, stuffed, later in the day.


This goat was very freshly butchered.  I have no idea whether one has to buy the entire thing or just favourite cuts.





We were amazed to see orchids growing 'in the wild' as it were, just attaching themselves to the tree bark but drawing moisture from the roots which were completely exposed to air.  This means that the plants are not parasites.



Geraniums also grow outside, year around.  These were surrounding a boulevard tree and did not seem to require particularly careful tending.







This type of sandwich is popular in Argentina.  White bread is sliced exceptionally thinly and the crusts are removed.  You then layer things:  bread--cheese--bread--meat--bread, yet it is not at thick as most North American sandwiches.  These can be delightful treats if prepared with good butter, mustard, and the like.


I believe that Raoul said that in his childhood days (he was born and raised on the street where he presently lives), one of his friends lived in this grand home.  It is now being extensively renovated.



If I remember correctly, this home is presently owned by a doctor and is one of the most grand homes of this particular street.