Coxinha

Coxinha Recipe - Authentic Brazilian Cuisine

Region / culture: Brazil | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Coxinha is a popular Brazilian snack that consists of shredded chicken wrapped in dough, shaped like a drumstick, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. It is a delicious and savory treat that is enjoyed by many around the world.

History

Coxinha originated in Brazil and is believed to have been created in the early 19th century. The snack's name, which means "little thigh" in Portuguese, comes from its shape resembling a chicken drumstick. It has since become a staple in Brazilian cuisine and is often served at parties, celebrations, and as a street food snack.

Ingredients

3 boneless chicken breasts
0.5 chopped onion
2 chopped cloves of garlic
6 tbsp margarine
2 cubes beef bouillon
salt
ground pepper
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 (8 oz (227 g)) cream cheese
2 eggs
bread crumbs

How to prepare

In a pressure cooker, combine chicken breast, chopped onion, garlic, beef bouillon, salt, ground pepper, margarine, and 3 cups of water. Cook the chicken for 10 minutes.
Remove the chicken breast from the broth and finely chop it to make the coxinha filling.
Enhance the filling by adding parsley, green onions, and cream cheese.
Bring exactly 3 cups of the remaining broth to a boil.
Add 3 cups of flour to the boiling water and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for about 1 minute until it forms a dough.
Transfer the dough out of the pan.
When warm, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and the flour lumps dissolve.
Flatten the dough with a rolling pin to about 0.25 inch thickness and cut medium-sized circles using a biscuit cutter.
Fold and close the dough to resemble a drumstick shape.
Brush the filled dough with egg whites and roll them in breadcrumbs.
Deep-fry the snacks at 350°F (177°C) for about 8 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Variations

Try adding different herbs and spices to the filling for a unique flavor profile.
Use different types of meat such as shredded beef or pork for a variation in taste.
Make a vegetarian version by using mashed potatoes or vegetables as the filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely chop the chicken breast for the filling to ensure a smooth texture.

- Adding cream cheese to the filling enhances the flavor and adds a creamy consistency.

- Be sure to knead the dough until smooth to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- Deep-fry the coxinhas at the right temperature to achieve a crispy exterior and a perfectly cooked interior.

Serving Suggestions

Coxinha can be served as a snack or appetizer at parties, gatherings, or as a tasty treat for lunch or dinner.

Cooking Techniques

Pressure cook the chicken to save time and ensure it is tender and easy to shred.

- Deep-fry the coxinhas to achieve a crispy and golden brown exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor.

- Substitute the cream cheese with ricotta or cottage cheese for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the filling and dough ahead of time and assemble the coxinhas just before frying.

- Freeze the assembled coxinhas for later use and fry them straight from the freezer.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the coxinhas on a platter with dipping sauces such as hot sauce, aioli, or salsa. - Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Enjoy coxinha with a cold beer, caipirinha, or a refreshing lemonade.

- Serve with a side salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover coxinhas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of coxinha contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of coxinha contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of coxinha contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of coxinha contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Coxinha is a good source of iron, vitamin A, and calcium.

Alergens

Coxinha contains gluten, dairy (cream cheese), and eggs.

Summary

Coxinha is a delicious snack that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of iron, vitamin A, and calcium, making it a satisfying and nutritious treat.

Summary

Coxinha is a delicious Brazilian snack that is perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a tasty treat any time of the day. With a crispy exterior and a savory filling, it is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying snack with your favorite dipping sauce and a cold beverage for a truly delightful experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still picture the first time I came across this recipe for Coxinha. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Brazil. My grandmother, who was an excellent cook herself, had a close friend who was known for her delicious Coxinhas. One day, she invited us over for a visit and served us these amazing little fried snacks. I remember taking my first bite and being blown away by the combination of flavors and textures - the crispy exterior, the savory chicken filling, and the creamy cheese center. It was love at first bite.

I begged my grandmother's friend to share her recipe with me, and she graciously agreed. She took me into her kitchen and showed me step by step how to make Coxinhas from scratch. I watched intently as she mixed the dough, cooked the chicken, and assembled each Coxinha by hand. It was a labor of love, but the end result was well worth it.

From that day on, I was determined to master the art of making Coxinhas. I practiced tirelessly, experimenting with different fillings and techniques until I found the perfect balance of flavors and textures. I would spend hours in the kitchen, kneading dough, boiling chicken, and shaping each Coxinha into its distinctive teardrop shape. And every time I took a bite of my homemade Coxinhas, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction that I had created something truly special.

Over the years, I continued to refine my recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly unique. I shared my Coxinhas with friends and family, who raved about how delicious they were. And soon enough, I became known in my village as the "Coxinha Queen," with people coming from far and wide to taste my creations.

But it wasn't just about the taste of the Coxinhas. It was about the memories and the connections that they represented. Every time I made a batch of Coxinhas, I thought of my grandmother's friend and how she had passed down her recipe to me. I thought of the time and effort that went into perfecting each Coxinha, and the joy that it brought to those who tried them. And most of all, I thought of the love and care that went into every bite.

To this day, Coxinhas hold a special place in my heart. They are more than just a snack - they are a symbol of my passion for cooking and my dedication to preserving and sharing the flavors of my culture. And every time I make a batch of Coxinhas, I am reminded of the journey that brought me to this point, and the countless hours spent in the kitchen perfecting my craft.

So the next time you bite into a Coxinha, remember that behind every crispy, savory bite is a story of tradition, love, and dedication. And know that with every bite, you are tasting a little piece of my heart and soul.