Must-Try Dishes When Visiting Brazil
1. Acarajé:
This popular street food has its roots in West African cuisine. Acarajé is made from peeled black-eyed peas, seasoned with ground shrimp and onions, then shaped into round balls and deep-fried in palm oil. Once cooked, they are split open and stuffed with fillings such as shrimp, caruru (okra stew), and vatapá – a mixture of fish, dried shrimp, nuts, and soaked bread. The spicy and savory flavors of acarajé make it a must-try dish when visiting Brazil.
2. Beijinho de coco:
Meaning “little coconut kiss” in Portuguese, beijinho de coco is a beloved sweet treat found at most Brazilian birthday parties. These soft coconut candies are made from grated coconut, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and granulated sugar. They are rolled in sugar or shredded coconut and decorated with a small clove on top. While traditionally made with coconut, beijinhos can also be flavored with other ingredients like passion fruit, strawberry gelatin, or cocoa powder.
3. Moqueca:
Moqueca is a slow-cooked seafood stew traditionally prepared in a clay pot. It typically includes fish or shrimp, along with ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, cilantro, olive oil, and lime juice. There are two famous versions of moqueca in Brazil: moqueca baiana and moqueca capixaba. Moqueca baiana, influenced by African culture, incorporates coconut milk and palm oil, while moqueca capixaba from Espírito Santo is influenced by Portuguese and Spanish cuisines. Both versions offer rich flavors and are often served with white rice and pirão de peixe (fish gravy).
4. Churrasco:
This is Brazil’s version of barbecue, similar to Argentina’s asado or South Africa’s braai. Churrasco consists of large skewers of beef, pork, lamb, chicken, veal, and sausages, slow-cooked over a wood fire. This tradition dates back to the early 19th century when Brazilian gauchos (skilled horsemen) would roast large cuts of meat over an open flame. The meats are typically paired with side dishes like farofa, Brazilian rice, potatoes, black beans, fried bananas, and a chili sauce. The smoky, flavorful meat makes churrasco an unforgettable culinary experience in Brazil.
