Romeu e Julieta – A Dessert as Romantic as Its Name
The name of this dish might evoke thoughts of the famous love story between Romeo and Juliet. However, there is no actual connection between this beloved Brazilian dessert and the tragic romance in Shakespeare’s play. “Romeu e Julieta” is simply the charming name given to an easy-to-make dish that brings together two main ingredients: cheese and ripe guava.
In Portuguese, the official language of Brazil, this dessert (which can also be served as an appetizer) is known as “Romeu e Julieta.” The key ingredient is a fresh, white cheese called queijo minas, a traditional product from the state of Minas Gerais, a region near Brazil’s Atlantic coast. If you’re preparing this dish outside of Brazil and can’t get your hands on queijo minas, suitable alternatives include Italian mozzarella or Mexican queso fresco. However, these substitutes are unlikely to deliver the same authentic flavor that makes this Brazilian dessert so unique.
The dish consists of a slice of queijo minas paired with a thick portion of goiabada, creating a flavor profile that’s as memorable as its name. Goiabada is a sweet preserve made from guava (goiaba in Portuguese), which is mashed and cooked with sugar to create a texture that lies somewhere between butter and jam. You can find goiabada in nearly any grocery store in Brazil or in Latin American markets worldwide. While queijo minas is salty and creamy, goiabada offers a sweet, slightly caramelized taste. This contrast between salty and sweet is what makes Romeu e Julieta so unique and delightful. Some believe it’s the perfect combination of opposites that inspired the dish’s name, echoing the love story of Romeo and Juliet. To enjoy the dish, you can cut small pieces of cheese and goiabada to eat together or slice larger portions and serve them on a plate to share.
The origins of goiabada date back to the colonial era, when Brazil was under Portuguese rule. It was initially created as a method to preserve fresh fruit for longer periods. Today, with modern refrigeration, storing both goiabada and queijo minas has become much easier. As a result, this delicious dish is a staple in many Brazilian households, where it can be quickly prepared and served to guests. Whether for a special occasion or simply as a sweet treat, Brazilians can enjoy the delightful taste of Romeu e Julieta at any time, a testament to the enduring charm of this simple yet flavorful dessert.
