Bolo do Caco
A circular flatbread cooked on a hot stone, usually served with garlic butter.
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.
Bolo do Caco's history is intertwined with the agricultural practices of Madeira. The 'caco' refers to the basalt stone slab traditionally used for cooking. This method of cooking likely arose from the need to efficiently utilize available resources and create a simple, nourishing bread for the local population.
Bolo do Caco is deeply ingrained in Madeiran culture, representing a staple food and a symbol of hospitality. It's a common sight at festivals, markets, and restaurants across the island, often served as a starter or a light meal.
Festivals and Celebrations
Bolo do Caco is frequently found at local festivals and celebrations in Madeira, serving as a readily available and popular food option.
Regional Identity
The dish is strongly associated with the island of Madeira and is considered an essential part of the island's culinary identity. Tourists and locals alike enjoy this traditional bread, contributing to its cultural significance.
Communal Eating
Bolo do Caco is often served as an appetizer to share, fostering a sense of community and shared experience around the table.
The dominant flavors of Bolo do Caco are a blend of subtle sweetness from the wheat flour, a hint of tanginess (sometimes) depending on the recipe, and the rich, savory garlic butter that's generously slathered on top. The texture offers a delightful contrast of slightly crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior.
The bread itself typically contains wheat flour, water, yeast, and salt. Some variations may include sweet potato, which contributes to its distinctive slightly sweet taste and softer texture. The garlic butter usually contains butter, garlic, parsley, and sometimes other herbs like oregano. The hot stone cooking method imparts a unique slightly smoky flavor.
Serving Temperature
Bolo do Caco is best served warm, allowing the garlic butter to melt and soak into the bread, enhancing the flavors.
Freshness Matters
Enjoy Bolo do Caco as fresh as possible. The texture and flavor are significantly better when the bread is freshly baked.
Pairing Suggestions
Consider pairing Bolo do Caco with traditional Madeiran dishes like Espetada (grilled beef skewers) or simply enjoy it with a glass of local wine.
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