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Brazilian pastries, known as salgados in Portuguese, are a beloved part of Brazilian cuisine. These savory and sometimes sweet treats are popular throughout the country and can vary in ingredients and shapes depending on the region. From the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro to the vibrant city of São Paulo, there are countless delicious pastries to try. Let's explore some of the best Brazilian pastries you need to taste on your visit to these iconic cities.
Rio de Janeiro
Coxinha
- Coxinha is a popular Brazilian snack that originated in São Paulo and has become a favorite throughout the country, including Rio de Janeiro.
- It is a deep-fried dough filled with shredded chicken, catupiry cheese, and sometimes other ingredients like cream cheese or herbs.
- The shape of coxinha resembles a chicken drumstick, hence its name, which translates to "little chicken thigh" in Portuguese.
Pão de Queijo
- Pão de queijo, or Brazilian cheese bread, is a staple in Brazilian cuisine and a must-try pastry in Rio de Janeiro.
- These small, cheesy bread rolls are made with tapioca flour and typically contain cheese, milk, eggs, and oil.
- They are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, making them a perfect snack or breakfast option.
São Paulo
Pastel
- Pastel is a popular Brazilian street food that is widely enjoyed in São Paulo and other parts of Brazil.
- It consists of thin pastry dough filled with a variety of savory fillings such as ground beef, cheese, chicken, shrimp, and hearts of palm.
- Pastel is typically deep-fried until crispy and served hot, making it a delicious and satisfying snack.
Esfirra
- Esfirra, also known as sfiha, is a Middle Eastern-inspired pastry that has become a popular snack in Brazil, especially in São Paulo.
- It is made with a thin dough filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and sometimes pine nuts or tahini.
- Esfirra can be baked or cooked on a griddle, and it is often served with a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
Regional Varieties
Empada (Bahia)
- Empada is a traditional Brazilian pastry that is particularly popular in the state of Bahia.
- It is similar to a mini pot pie, with a buttery, flaky crust and a savory filling that can include chicken, shrimp, palm hearts, or vegetables.
- Empadas are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer in Bahia and other regions of Brazil.
Brigadeiro (Rio de Janeiro)
- Brigadeiro is a beloved Brazilian dessert that originated in Rio de Janeiro and is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
- It is made with condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter, and chocolate sprinkles, giving it a rich and fudgy texture.
- Brigadeiros are rolled into small balls and coated in chocolate sprinkles, making them a popular treat at parties and celebrations.
Conclusion
From the bustling streets of Rio de Janeiro to the vibrant city of São Paulo, Brazilian pastries offer a diverse and flavorful culinary experience. Whether you're craving a savory coxinha or a sweet brigadeiro, there is a pastry to satisfy every palate in Brazil. Make sure to indulge in these delicious treats on your visit to Rio and São Paulo for a true taste of Brazilian cuisine.