Pão de Queijo
Traditional Brazilian cheese bread, a staple and the namesake of the restaurant.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
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Rainha do Pão de Queijo
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The exact origins of Pão de Queijo are debated, but it's believed to have emerged in the state of Minas Gerais during the 18th century. Enslaved Africans likely played a key role in its development, utilizing leftover cassava starch (polvilho) as wheat was scarce. The introduction of cheese, primarily Minas cheese, solidified the recipe as we know it today.
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Pão de Queijo is deeply ingrained in Brazilian culture, especially in Minas Gerais. It's more than just food; it represents hospitality, comfort, and a connection to family and tradition.
Breakfast Staple
Pão de Queijo is a common breakfast item throughout Brazil, often enjoyed with coffee. It is a quick and satisfying way to start the day.
Social Gathering Food
It's a popular snack served at social gatherings, parties, and family events. Its small size and delicious taste make it perfect for sharing.
Regional Pride
In Minas Gerais, Pão de Queijo is a source of regional pride, and many families have their own secret recipes passed down through generations. It is a symbol of the state's culinary heritage.
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Although regional, it has become a nationally loved and recognized food. It is widely available across the country, from bakeries to supermarkets.
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Pão de Queijo boasts a savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy flavor profile, complemented by a uniquely chewy and airy texture.
The dominant flavor comes from the cheese, traditionally Minas cheese, which imparts a slightly sour and salty taste. Tapioca starch (polvilho doce or azedo) contributes a mild, slightly sweet, and subtly fermented flavor, also responsible for the distinct chewiness. Milk and oil add richness and moisture, while eggs bind the ingredients and contribute to the bread's structure.
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Type of Polvilho
Using a combination of sweet (doce) and sour (azedo) tapioca starch (polvilho) is crucial for the characteristic chewy texture and slightly tangy flavor. Experiment with ratios to find your preferred balance.
Cheese Quality
The type of cheese used greatly affects the flavor. Authentic Pão de Queijo uses Minas cheese, but other cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or queijo canastra can be substituted or combined. Use good quality cheese for the best results.
Temperature Matters
Scalding the polvilho with hot milk and oil is essential for activating the starch and creating the proper dough consistency. Let it cool slightly before adding the eggs to prevent them from cooking.
Dough Consistency
The dough should be sticky and slightly wet. Avoid adding too much polvilho, as this can result in a dry and dense bread. If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk.
Baking Temperature
Baking at a high temperature (around 375-400°F or 190-200°C) ensures a crispy exterior and a soft, airy interior.
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