Tilápia à Parmegiana
Breaded tilapia fillet au gratin with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, accompanied by rice and mashed potatoes.
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.
Tilápia à Parmegiana is a Brazilian adaptation of the Italian classic, Parmigiana. Italian immigrants heavily influenced Brazilian cuisine in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bringing with them dishes like lasagna, pizza, and parmigiana. Brazilians adapted these dishes to local tastes and ingredients, resulting in unique variations like Tilápia à Parmegiana.
Tilápia à Parmegiana is a popular dish often found in Brazilian restaurants and homes. It's considered comfort food and is frequently served as a family meal or for casual gatherings.
Family Meal Staple
It's commonly prepared at home and enjoyed as a hearty and satisfying family meal, especially on weekends.
Restaurant Favorite
Many Brazilian restaurants feature Tilápia à Parmegiana on their menus, often offering variations with different cheeses or sauce enhancements.
Social Occasions
The dish is a good choice for informal gatherings and celebrations, showcasing the Brazilian preference for flavorful and generously portioned meals.
The dish is a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors. The mildness of the tilapia is complemented by the rich tomato sauce and the melted mozzarella, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
The primary flavors come from the combination of the breaded and fried tilapia, which provides a crispy texture and subtle fish flavor; the tangy and slightly sweet tomato sauce, often seasoned with garlic, onions, and herbs; and the creamy, melted mozzarella cheese, which adds richness and a pleasant stretch. The accompanying rice contributes a neutral base, while the mashed potatoes offer a smooth and buttery counterpoint to the other elements.
Tilapia Preparation
Pat the tilapia fillets dry before breading to ensure the breading adheres properly and the fish gets nice and crispy when fried. Consider marinating the tilapia briefly in lemon juice and garlic for added flavor.
Tomato Sauce Quality
Use a high-quality tomato sauce or make your own from scratch for the best flavor. Season it well with garlic, onions, herbs (such as oregano and basil), and a touch of sugar to balance the acidity.
Cheese Selection
While mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or parmesan for a more complex flavor profile. Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
Baking Time
Don't overbake the dish. Bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly to prevent the tilapia from drying out.
Explore additional Parmegiana dishes and restaurants
Explore ParmegianaDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Osasco.
Explore OsascoLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of Brazil.
Explore Brazil