Peixe Branco
(peixe branco e cream cheese)
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.
Restaurante Casagrande
While the exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, the combination of white fish and cream cheese likely emerged in Brazil as a fusion of European cooking techniques (particularly the use of dairy) with local ingredients. Portugal's influence on Brazilian cuisine introduced dairy products and creamy sauces. The availability of fresh white fish along the Brazilian coast would have made it a natural pairing. The dish probably gained popularity in the 20th century as refrigeration became more widespread, allowing for wider consumption of cream cheese.
Peixe Branco e Cream Cheese is often seen as a comforting and relatively simple dish, suitable for both casual meals and more formal occasions. It's appreciated for its light and agreeable flavor, making it a popular choice, particularly in warmer climates.
Festive Occasions
While not strictly a holiday dish, Peixe Branco e Cream Cheese can be served during family gatherings or celebrations, particularly during the summer months or near the coast.
Restaurant Staple
You can commonly find variations of this dish on restaurant menus, particularly in coastal regions of Brazil. Restaurants often adapt the recipe with their own signature sauces and preparations.
Home Cooking
It is a dish that is easy to prepare at home, making it accessible for everyday meals. Many Brazilians have their own family recipes passed down through generations.
The dish features a mild and delicate flavor profile, primarily driven by the white fish and complemented by the richness and tang of cream cheese. Often, subtle seasonings are used to enhance rather than overpower the core flavors.
The white fish (such as sea bass, tilapia, or cod) provides a light, flaky texture and a clean, slightly sweet taste. The cream cheese adds a creamy, tangy, and subtly sweet counterpoint, enriching the overall mouthfeel. Common additions include lemon juice or zest for brightness, garlic for a savory note, and herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for freshness and aroma. Salt and white pepper season the dish delicately, ensuring the fish's natural flavor remains central. Some variations incorporate onions or shallots for added depth.
Fish Freshness
Always use the freshest white fish available. Look for fish with clear eyes, bright red gills, and a fresh, sea-like smell.
Cream Cheese Quality
Use a high-quality cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. Full-fat cream cheese will provide a richer and creamier result.
Gentle Cooking
Avoid overcooking the fish, as it can become dry and rubbery. Cook it just until it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Lemon Zest
Adding lemon zest along with the juice will enhance the citrus notes and add another dimension of flavor.
Don't Overmix
When combining the cooked fish with the cream cheese mixture, be gentle and avoid overmixing. Overmixing can break down the fish and result in a mushy texture.
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