
Pratos à la carte (À la carte dishes)
Offers a variety of à la carte dishes including traditional Minas Gerais cuisine
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.
Minas Gerais cuisine developed from the colonial period, influenced by indigenous ingredients, Portuguese traditions, and African culinary practices brought by enslaved people. The abundance of local produce and livestock contributed to hearty and flavorful dishes. The 'à la carte' aspect reflects the flexibility and individual choice afforded to diners.
Food in Minas Gerais is deeply intertwined with the region's culture and identity. Sharing a meal is a central social activity, and many traditional dishes are prepared for celebrations and family gatherings. The slow-cooked nature of many recipes reflects a slower pace of life and a focus on community.
Hospitality
Mineiros (people from Minas Gerais) are known for their hospitality and generosity, and sharing food is a way to express these values. It is common for hosts to offer an abundance of dishes to guests.
Family Gatherings
Traditional Minas Gerais dishes are often prepared for family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. These meals are a time for families to connect and celebrate their heritage.
Rural Traditions
Many of the ingredients and techniques used in Minas Gerais cuisine reflect the region's agricultural heritage and rural traditions. Dishes often feature locally sourced ingredients and time-honored cooking methods.
Minas Gerais cuisine emphasizes rich, savory flavors, often featuring pork, beans, corn, cheese, and locally grown vegetables. The dishes tend to be comforting and hearty, with a balance of umami, saltiness, and subtle sweetness.
Common ingredients include pork (especially pork belly and ribs), tutu de feijão (refried beans with manioc flour), queijo minas (a fresh, mild cheese), corn (used in various preparations), ora-pro-nobis (a type of leafy green), and cassava. The dishes are typically seasoned with garlic, onions, herbs, and spices like cumin and coriander. Many dishes are slow-cooked to develop deep, complex flavors.
Source Quality Ingredients
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible, especially pork, beans, and cheese. Look for locally sourced produce and artisanal products.
Embrace Slow Cooking
Many Minas Gerais dishes benefit from slow cooking, which allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Be patient and allow ample time for the ingredients to simmer and develop their full potential.
Experiment with Flavors
Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and seasonings to create your own unique variations of traditional Minas Gerais dishes. Adjust the flavors to your personal preferences.
Explore additional A la carte dishes and restaurants
Explore A la carteDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Jacareí.
Explore JacareíLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Brazil.
Explore Brazil