Filé à Parmegiana
Beef filet parmigiana served with rice and french fries.
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.
Filé à Parmegiana, despite its Italian-sounding name, is a distinctly Brazilian creation, likely inspired by Italian immigrants and their culinary traditions. The dish blends classic Italian-American Parmigiana preparations with Brazilian tastes and preferences, incorporating beef filet instead of eggplant or chicken and often served with rice and french fries – a quintessential Brazilian accompaniment.
Filé à Parmegiana is a popular comfort food in Brazil, often found on restaurant menus and enjoyed in family settings. It represents a fusion of culinary influences and highlights the Brazilian adaptation of international dishes to suit local palates.
Restaurant Staple
Filé à Parmegiana is a common dish found in many Brazilian restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale establishments. It's a reliable and satisfying option for diners.
Family Meal
It's often enjoyed as a family meal, especially during special occasions or weekend gatherings. The generous portions and comforting flavors make it a crowd-pleaser.
Fusion Cuisine
The dish exemplifies Brazilian cuisine's ability to incorporate and adapt foreign influences, creating unique and beloved dishes that are distinctly Brazilian.
Filé à Parmegiana offers a rich and savory flavor profile, blending the tender, meaty taste of beef filet with the tangy and herbaceous notes of tomato sauce and the creamy, melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
The key flavors come from the perfectly seared or breaded and fried beef filet, the typically homemade tomato sauce (often simmered with garlic, onions, and herbs like basil and oregano), and the combination of melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. The dish's richness is often balanced by the plain steamed white rice, while the crispy french fries offer a contrasting texture and salty flavor.
Beef Quality
Use high-quality beef filet mignon for the most tender and flavorful result. The thickness of the filet should be consistent for even cooking.
Tomato Sauce
Homemade tomato sauce is preferable for a richer and more authentic flavor. Simmering the sauce for a longer period allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
Cheese Combination
A combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese provides a balance of creamy texture and sharp, savory flavor. Use good quality cheeses that melt well.
Crispy Coating
If breading the filet, ensure the breadcrumbs are finely ground and well-seasoned. Use a double-breading technique (flour, egg, breadcrumbs) for a crispier crust.
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