Salgados
Various savory snacks such as coxinha, risoles, and empadas.
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.
Salgados evolved from European culinary influences, particularly Portuguese and French, combined with local Brazilian ingredients and tastes. The techniques of frying and dough preparation were adapted, resulting in the diverse and delicious snacks we know today. Coxinha, for example, is believed to have originated in the 19th century, possibly inspired by the needs of a royal child. Empadas are a Brazilian adaptation of European savory pies.
Salgados are deeply ingrained in Brazilian culture, serving as popular snacks for parties, celebrations, and everyday meals. They are a staple in bakeries (padarias), lanchonetes (snack bars), and street food stalls across the country.
Party Staple
Salgados are almost mandatory at Brazilian birthday parties, weddings, and other celebrations. They are considered essential for any gathering and are a sign of hospitality.
Everyday Snack
Beyond celebrations, Salgados are enjoyed as a quick and affordable snack throughout the day. They are readily available and offer a variety of options to suit different tastes.
Regional Variations
While the core salgados like coxinha and risoles are common throughout Brazil, regional variations exist in fillings and preparation techniques, reflecting local ingredients and culinary traditions.
Salgados offer a wide range of savory flavors, typically focusing on chicken, beef, cheese, and ham. The flavor profiles are enriched with herbs, spices, and creamy sauces.
Coxinha boasts a creamy, chicken-flavored filling encased in a crispy, deep-fried dough. Risoles offer various fillings, such as cheese and ham or shrimp, seasoned with herbs and spices, also deep-fried for a crunchy exterior. Empadas showcase a buttery, flaky crust filled with a savory mixture of chicken, hearts of palm (palmito), or shrimp, often enriched with creamy cheese or tomato-based sauces. The doughs themselves can be subtly seasoned with herbs and spices as well.
Dough Consistency
The dough should be smooth and elastic, not too sticky or too dry. Allow it to rest adequately before shaping.
Frying Temperature
Maintain a consistent oil temperature for even cooking and a crispy exterior. Avoid overcrowding the fryer.
Filling Flavor
Season the fillings generously with herbs, spices, and aromatics to create a flavorful and satisfying snack. Consider using homemade chicken broth for the coxinha filling for a richer flavor.
Empada Crust
For a flaky empada crust, use cold butter and avoid overworking the dough. Chilling the dough before baking also helps.
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