Ah, Brazil.
When people talk about my country, they mostly talk about beaches. And I understand that: living in Salvador has taught me a thing or two about appreciating the sea and its benefits.
But if something should catch your attention, it is the Brazilian foods we have.
It’s one of the biggest reasons for me to stay in my home country: the good memories brought by our food cannot be replaced, and I’m afraid leaving Brazil would put a chasm between me and the superb dishes we have here.
But enough with this yakking about how good Brazilian food is: let’s talk about some specifics. And here are the ten best Brazilian foods, according to me, a Brazilian.
1. Feijoada
Feijoada is a stew of black beans, pork, and beef, usually served with rice. It's considered Brazil's national dish and is often enjoyed with friends and family on weekends.
It's believed that its origins can be traced back to the time of slavery when slaves were given the leftover parts of the pig, such as ears, feet, and tails, which they would cook with beans and rice. Over time, the dish evolved and became a staple in Brazilian cuisine, enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Today, feijoada is often served on weekends, bringing friends and family together for a delicious and comforting meal.
2. Pão de Queijo
Pão de queijo, or cheese bread, is a small bread made with tapioca flour and cheese. It's crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.
When it comes to enjoying pão de queijo, the best way is to have it fresh out of the oven. The warm and cheesy aroma that fills the air colors the rest of the meal.
You can enjoy it as a snack or a side dish with your meal.
Some people (that’s ME) like to dip it in coffee or tea, while others prefer to have it with a dollop of butter or cream cheese.
3. Brigadeiro
Brigadeiro is a chocolate truffle made with condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
It’s a must-have for any birthday party. And for breakups (well, after a breakup, at least).
Storytime:
Now that we talk about it, I am reminded of my ninth birthday.
My mother invited every child living in the neighborhood — it was a small place, and everyone knew everyone, so not inviting one of the children would be an offense.
But two children stood out in particular — two girls whose names shall be left out.
They were the children of one of our neighbors who used to make pastry for a living.
Their parents weren't on friendly terms with my parents, but my mother invited them anyway to show she was the big person.
Those two children came to my house, feel their hands with brigadeiro, and went back to their house.
They did that four or five times before my mother caught them. They took away most of the brigadeiros. We were very angry.
4. Moqueca
Moqueca is a seafood stew made with coconut milk, dendê oil, peppers, and tomatoes. It's a traditional dish from the state of Bahia, but it's enjoyed all over Brazil.
A bit about dendê (so pervasive in my current city!)
Dendê oil is a type of palm oil that is commonly used in Brazilian cuisine, particularly in the state of Bahia where it is a staple ingredient in the traditional dish of moqueca.
This oil has a distinct flavor that is both nutty and slightly bitter, which adds a unique depth of flavor to the dish.
When combined with the sweetness of coconut milk and the spiciness of peppers, dendê oil creates a rich and complex flavor profile that is both savory and satisfying.
Its bright orange color also adds a vibrant hue to the dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
But you have to be cautious when eating it — it is very, very fatty!
5. Coxinha
Coxinha is a fried dough filled with shredded chicken. It's shaped like a teardrop and is a popular snack in Brazil.
As we say in Brazil: it’s happiness in the form of food.
6. Açaí
Açaí is a superfood berry from the Amazon region. It's often served as a smoothie bowl with granola and fruits.It's a popular food among "marombeiros" (people who work out to get really muscular).
Açaí, a superfood berry from the Amazon region, holds great cultural significance in Brazil.
It is not only a popular food among "marombeiros" who consume it for its nutritional value, but it is also deeply rooted in the traditions and customs of the indigenous people of the Amazon.
The açaí berry has been a staple food for the indigenous tribes for centuries, providing them with essential nutrients and energy. In fact, the word "açaí" comes from the Tupi-Guarani language, meaning "fruit that cries or expels water." It has a beautiful legend behind it.
7. Churrasco
Churrasco is a barbecue-style dish that includes various cuts of meat, such as sirloin, ribs, and sausage. It's usually served with farofa (toasted cassava flour) and vinagrete (a tomato and onion salad).
I’ve never had American barbecue before, so I can’t say how different they are, but if you have any experience with that, share your thoughts in the comments below 🙂
8. Pastel
If you speak Spanish, this might come off as a surprise, but Pastel in Brazil isn’t a kind of cake…
Actually, pastel is a fried pastry filled with various ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or vegetables. It's a popular street food in Brazil.
In some places, we even have “pastel de vento” (wind pastel), which has no filling. When it’s made very small, it becomes highly snackable.
9.Empada
Empada is a savory pastry that is similar to a mini pie. It is usually filled with chicken, cheese, or shrimp, and is a popular snack in Brazil. The pastry is made with flour, butter, and sometimes even cream cheese, which gives it a rich and flaky texture (the pastry is called “massa podre,” or rotten pastry).
It’s my favorite and one of the big culprits for my current weight.
These are the best Brazilian foods according to me, but don’t stop here.
Brazilian cuisine is diverse and delicious; these nine dishes are just the tip of the iceberg. If you're interested in trying Brazilian food, start with these and explore the many other flavorful options out there!
Do you have a favorite Brazilian dish? Let us know in the comments below!