Pão de Queijo, or Brazilian cheese bread, is a delightful and addictive snack made from tapioca flour and cheese. These gluten-free cheese puffs are crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. They are a popular breakfast item in Brazil and are also enjoyed as a snack throughout the day. Here’s a traditional recipe to help you make Brazilian Pão de Queijo at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups tapioca flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese (or any other hard cheese)
- 2 large eggs
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Once the milk mixture boils, remove it from the heat and slowly add the tapioca flour, stirring constantly until well combined. The mixture will be thick and sticky.
- Cool the Dough:
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to handle when adding the eggs.
- Add Cheese and Eggs:
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture and mix well.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough will be sticky and slightly stretchy.
- Shape the Dough:
- Using a spoon or your hands, form the dough into small balls, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the Pão de Queijo:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese bread is puffed and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve the Pão de Queijo warm. Enjoy them plain or with a variety of spreads.
Tips for Perfect Pão de Queijo:
- Consistent Mixing: Ensure the tapioca flour is well incorporated into the milk mixture to avoid lumps.
- Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors. Traditional recipes often use Minas cheese.
- Serving Warm: Pão de Queijo is best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven.
Cultural Significance:
Pão de Queijo is a beloved snack in Brazil, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee in the morning or as an afternoon treat. Its origins date back to the 18th century, and it has become a staple in Brazilian cuisine, representing the country’s love for cheese and bread.
Making Brazilian Pão de Queijo at home allows you to enjoy a delicious and traditional Brazilian snack. These cheese puffs, with their crispy exterior and chewy, cheesy interior, are sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as a snack, or at a gathering, this traditional recipe will bring a taste of Brazil to your kitchen.