Pão de Queijo, a beloved snack originating from Brazil, is known for its unique chewy texture and delicious cheesy flavor. These small, round cheese breads are a staple in Brazilian cuisine, typically enjoyed as a breakfast treat or afternoon snack. The secret to their irresistible texture lies in the use of tapioca flour, which gives them a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy interior. Best of all, they are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups tapioca flour
- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese (or a combination of Parmesan and mozzarella)
- 2 large eggs
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Heat the Wet Ingredients:
- In a saucepan, combine the milk, water, oil (or butter), and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Mix the Dough:
- Once the mixture boils, remove it from the heat and immediately add the tapioca flour. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky. Let the dough cool for a few minutes.
- Incorporate the Eggs and Cheese:
- Add the grated cheese to the dough and mix well. The dough will become crumbly.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.
- Shape the Dough:
- With lightly oiled or floured hands, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese breads are puffed up and golden brown on the outside.
- Serve:
- Serve the Pão de Queijo warm, straight from the oven. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated later.
Tips:
- For a twist, try adding some finely chopped herbs like rosemary or oregano to the dough.
- You can freeze the unbaked dough balls and bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Enjoy your homemade Brazilian Cheese Bread!
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