Comitiva Boa Sorte wins Queima do Alho contest in Barretos

The Comitiva Boa Sorte, from Ubirajara (SP), won the traditional Queima do Alho competition during the 71st Festa do Peão de Barretos on August 23. The contest, held at the Rancho Ponto de Pouso, featured over 20 groups from various Brazilian regions, including São Paulo, Goiás, Minas Gerais, and Mato Grosso.

Winning commissioner Adão Luiz de Carvalho emphasized the importance of tradition and the care taken with the evaluated elements. The competition judges more than just flavor; participants are assessed on their cooking methods, utensils, and ability to prepare traditional meals in limited spaces, reflecting the historical routine of cattle drivers. The winning menu included arroz carreteiro, feijão gordo, paçoca de carne, and meat prepared on a griddle.

The second-place position was awarded to Comitiva Viajando por Mato Grosso, while Comitiva Nossa Sr. ª da Aparecida from Barretos took third. According to coordinator João Paulo Martins, the event drew approximately 3,500 spectators and remains a vital link to the history of the cattle driver culture.