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Have you ever heard of Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pão de Queijo)? It’s a gluten-free and cheesy pastry that is popular in Brazil – but trust me when I tell you this: it’s so much more than just your typical snack! Pão de Queijo has all the best things about baking packed into one delicious bite – a burst of cheesy goodness with a light and crispy texture that will have everyone asking for another. Whether you prefer savory snacks or sweet treats, prepare to be blown away by Brazil’s most beloved snack food. So what are you waiting for? Let’s explore how this amazing recipe comes together!
Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pao de Queijo): Cheesy, Chewy, Yummy!
Picture yourself walking down the vibrant streets of Brazil, with the sun warming your skin and the aroma of freshly baked bread tickling your nose. Suddenly, a warm, fluffy ball of cheese bread catches your eye from a street vendor’s cart. You take a bite and your taste buds are transported to heaven.
Pao de Queijo, also known as Brazilian Cheese Bread, is a staple in Brazilian cuisine and once you try it, you’ll understand why. Made with tapioca flour and filled with gooey melted cheese, these little balls of goodness are perfect as a snack or even as a side dish with your meal. Don’t just take our word for it, try it for yourself and let the taste take you on a journey to Brazil.
Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pao de Queijo)
Best Baking Tips; Ingredient Tips
Are you ready to take your taste buds on a trip to Brazil? Let’s talk about the star ingredient of Brazilian Cheese Bread, also known as Pao de Queijo.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese is the main ingredient in this beloved snack. Its sharp and nutty flavor gives the bread a unique taste that is hard to resist. Did you know that Parmesan cheese was first produced by Benedictine monks in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy? It wasn’t until the early 16th century that the production of this cheese spread to Portuguese colonies, including Brazil.
Eggs
Eggs are also a key component of Brazilian Cheese Bread. They add moisture and richness to the dough, making the bread soft and chewy. Fun fact: eggs have been consumed by humans for thousands of years, and are a great source of protein and essential nutrients.
Tapioca Flour
Tapioca flour is another important ingredient that gives Brazilian Cheese Bread its signature texture. It’s made from cassava root, which is native to South America and has been a staple food in the region for centuries. Tapioca flour is gluten-free and adds a slight sweetness to the bread.
Olive Oil and Milk
Milk and Olive Oil are used to bind all the ingredients together. Olive oil is a healthy fat that has been a part of Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. It adds flavor and richness to the bread. Milk adds a touch of creaminess and helps to create a smooth dough.
Spices
Lastly, spices are added to enhance the flavor of Brazilian Cheese Bread. Common spices include nutmeg, cayenne powder, and black pepper. These spices add depth and complexity to the bread, making it a satisfying snack or side dish.
In summary, Brazilian Cheese Bread is a delicious and unique snack made with Parmesan cheese, eggs, tapioca flour, olive oil, milk, and spices. Its ingredients are a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Brazil and have their own unique histories and stories to tell. So next time you bite into a warm, freshly-baked Pao de Queijo, remember the ingredients that make it so special!
I can’t get enough of these little balls of deliciousness!
Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pao de Queijo)
If you want to try this Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pao de Queijo) Recipe, share your photo and experience with us. In addition, let us know what you think in the comments below by using #bestbakingtip, #braziliancheesebread, and #paodequeijo
Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pao de Queijo)
Ingredients
Let's gather the ingredients!
- 5 ounces Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 cups tapioca flour
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil divided for oiling and shaping
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup water
- ¼ tsp nutmeg ground
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Let's Begin!
Dough
- Place the cheese and eggs in a food processor until a smooth paste forms.
- Combine tapioca flour and salt in a bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Set aside.
- Combine oil, milk, and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan, and bring to a boil over medium-high. Immediately pour the oil mixture into the tapioca mixture in a stand mixer, all at once, and turn the mixer on at low speed.
- Beat until the dough is smooth and starch is completely incorporated.
- Turn the stand mixer off, then add the cheese mixture, nutmeg, cayenne, and black pepper. Beat mixture on low speed until it turns pale yellow.
- Transfer the dough to a medium bowl, then cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until dough is chilled and slightly stiffened for at least 2 hours or up to 12 hours.
Let's Shape and Bake!
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 3 large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Lightly coat your hands with oil, then pinch off 1 tablespoon worth of dough, then roll between your palms into balls.
- Place 16 to 18 pieces of dough on each prepared baking sheet 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until rolls puff up and are light golden brown
- Remove from oven, then place the cheese bread in a basket lined with a napkin. Serve immediately, while they are at their warmest and chewiest.
- Enjoy with family and friends!
Nutrition
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To Wrap It All Up
Brazilian cheese bread is a savory snack that can be enjoyed in many forms and preparations. Whether you’ve made your own from scratch or indulged in a store-bought version, Pão de Queijo is guaranteed to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Its history is fascinating as well and can only enrich your experience of this delicious treat. If you haven’t already, give this incredible dish a try — we promise that its rich flavors and unique texture will have you hooked!
Let us know what you think of Brazilian cheese bread: did you love it? Were there any additional twists or ingredients that would enhance the flavor even further? We’re excited to get your ideas and feedback.
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