Pão de Queijo

Pão de Queijo Recipe - Authentic Brazilian Cheese Bread

Region / culture: Brazil | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Pão de Queijo, also known as Brazilian cheese bread, is a popular snack in Brazil made with tapioca flour and cheese. These small, chewy, and cheesy bread rolls are a staple in Brazilian cuisine and are enjoyed by people all over the world.

History

Pão de Queijo has its origins in the state of Minas Gerais in Brazil, where it is a traditional dish. The recipe dates back to the 18th century when African slaves in Brazil used tapioca flour, which was readily available, to make bread. Over time, cheese was added to the recipe, creating the delicious snack we know today.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of polvilho doce
4 cups of milk
1 cup of oil
1 tsp of salt
5 eggs
1 lb (454 g) of grated cheese (cheddar, white or yellow)

How to prepare

Heat the milk and oil, then pour it over the polvilho and let it cool.
Add the remaining ingredients and knead the dough.
Shape the dough into small balls, approximately 1 teaspoonful in size, and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) until golden, which should take about 30 minutes.

Variations

Add herbs such as parsley or chives to the dough for a flavorful twist.
Use different types of cheese, such as parmesan or mozzarella, for a unique taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use polvilho doce, a type of tapioca flour, for the authentic texture of Pão de Queijo.

- Knead the dough well to ensure a smooth and elastic texture.

- Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough bread rolls.

- For a crispier crust, bake the Pão de Queijo at a higher temperature for a shorter amount of time.

Serving Suggestions

Pão de Queijo can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or served with coffee or tea for breakfast.

Cooking Techniques

Use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough easily.

- Shape the dough into balls using a cookie scoop for uniform sizes.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of cheese you prefer in place of cheddar.

- Olive oil can be used instead of vegetable oil for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can freeze the unbaked dough balls and bake them as needed for a quick snack.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Pão de Queijo on a platter with a side of salsa or guacamole for a festive appetizer.

Pairing Recommendations

Pão de Queijo pairs well with a glass of Brazilian caipirinha or a cup of hot chocolate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Pão de Queijo in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the bread rolls in a toaster oven or microwave until warm before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Pão de Queijo contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Pão de Queijo contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Pão de Queijo contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Pão de Queijo contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Pão de Queijo is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

Pão de Queijo contains dairy and eggs, making it unsuitable for those with dairy or egg allergies.

Summary

Pão de Queijo is a delicious and nutritious snack that is high in fats and carbohydrates, making it a filling treat.

Summary

Pão de Queijo is a delicious and easy-to-make Brazilian cheese bread that is perfect for snacking or serving at parties. With its chewy texture and cheesy flavor, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Pão de Queijo. It was many years ago, when I was a young newlywed living in a small town in Brazil. My husband and I had just moved into our first home together, and I was determined to impress him with my cooking skills.

One day, while browsing through a local market, I came across a small stall selling freshly baked Pão de Queijo. The warm, cheesy aroma wafted through the air, and I knew I had to try one. As soon as I took my first bite, I was hooked. The crispy exterior gave way to a soft, chewy center bursting with gooey cheese. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I immediately struck up a conversation with the woman behind the stall, who introduced herself as Dona Maria. She was a sweet, elderly lady with a twinkle in her eye and a warm smile that instantly put me at ease. As we chatted, I couldn't help but ask her for the recipe for her delicious Pão de Queijo.

Dona Maria's eyes lit up at my request, and she graciously agreed to share her secret recipe with me. She explained that Pão de Queijo was a traditional Brazilian cheese bread made with tapioca flour and a special type of cheese called queijo minas. She showed me how to mix the ingredients together to form a sticky dough, which was then rolled into small balls and baked until golden brown.

I watched intently as Dona Maria worked her magic, her hands moving with practiced ease. She shared stories of how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. I could sense the pride and love she felt for this family recipe, and I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

After our baking lesson was over, Dona Maria handed me a handwritten recipe card with detailed instructions on how to make Pão de Queijo. She urged me to try it out at home and promised that it would taste just as good as hers. I thanked her profusely and left the market with a heart full of gratitude and excitement.

That evening, I set to work in my kitchen, following Dona Maria's instructions to the letter. I mixed the ingredients together, feeling a sense of nostalgia as the familiar scents of cheese and tapioca flour filled the air. As the Pão de Queijo baked in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

When the timer finally went off, I eagerly opened the oven door to reveal a batch of golden-brown, perfectly puffed Pão de Queijo. I couldn't believe my eyes - they looked just like Dona Maria's! I took a bite, and instantly I was transported back to that sunny market stall, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Brazil.

From that day on, Pão de Queijo became a staple in our home. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, or simply as a treat for my husband and me. Each time I baked a batch, I would think of Dona Maria and the special bond we had formed over a shared love for this beloved recipe.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it uniquely mine. But the essence of Dona Maria's Pão de Queijo remains the same - a simple, yet delicious bread that brings people together and warms the soul.

As I sit here now, surrounded by my grandchildren and great-grandchildren, I can't help but smile as I watch them enjoy the Pão de Queijo that has become a cherished family tradition. I may have stumbled upon this recipe by chance, but it has brought me so much joy and connection throughout the years.

So here's to you, Dona Maria, wherever you may be. Thank you for sharing your recipe with me and for opening my eyes to the magic of Pão de Queijo. May it continue to bring warmth and happiness to many generations to come. Obrigada, minha amiga.