Source: Fernando da Veiga Pessoa
From the larger cities like São Paulo and Rio to the thousands of miles of coastline to the epic countrysides, Brazil really does have it all and its snacks are just as diverse and interesting as its landscape. We’ve picked 10 iconic Brazilian snacks you must try during your visit. This list will ensure that you know your acarajé from your açaí.
1. Açai na Tigela
Source: Mark Hillary
Açai is considered a super food. It is low in sugar content and high in antioxidants, good fats, proteins, and vitamins. Açai na tigela is made from frozen açai berries that grow in the Amazon. It’s usually served with granola, banana, and syrup. For decades it has been popular along the coast of Brazil and has continued to gain popularity inland as well. You’ll find it at juice bars across the country. It is a popular and healthy Brazilian snack.
Information
- Name: açai na tigela
- Cost: $
- Best place to find them: Coast of Brazil
2. Bolinho de Bacalhau
Source: eduardoicone icone
Bolinho de bacalhau, or little codfish balls, should be crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Originally Portuguese, the bolinho gained such popularity in Brazil that they quickly became a Brazilian favorite and are an absolute must-try snack for any visitor to Brazil.
Information
- Name: bolinho de bacalhau
- Made from: cod
- Price: $$
3. Pão de Queijo
Source: Leo Rey
Pão de Queijo, or cheese bread, are made from cheese and cassava starch. They are typically eaten as a snack or for breakfast. They can also be found in subway stations freshly baked in the morning. They first became popular in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, but quickly became a national favorite. They are available nationwide, but for the traditional experience head to Minas. Be warned, they are addicting!
Information
- Name: Pão de Queijo
- Cost: $
- Best place to find them: Minas, Brazil
4. Pastel
Source: Chester
Pastel is a deep-fried pastry with a variety of fillings. It was originally inspired by a Chinese egg roll. The Chinese immigrants adjusted their cuisine to what ingredients were available in Brazil. They are cheap, easy to make, and require few ingredients, making them a perfect Brazilian snack.
Information
- Name: Pastel
- Cost: $
- Popular fillings: chicken, cheese, hearts of palm, ground beef, shrimp, and vegetables
5. Kibe
Kibe is a traditional Middle Eastern dish consisting mainly of minced lamb or beef mixed with bulgur wheat and then fried, baked or eaten raw. The street food version is usually fried. Kibe is Lebanon’s national dish, and immigrants from Lebanon brought it with them upon moving to Brazil. It quickly became one of Brazil’s most popular snacks.
Information
- Name: Kibe
- Cost: $$
- Variations: fried, baked, or raw
6. Coxinha
This rain-drop shape, deep-fried finger food is the star of São Paulo snacks. It was traditionally made with chicken thigh,of which its shaped is supposed to resemble. However, now you can find many variations of coxinha. The term ‘coxinha’ is also commonly used to describe right wing supporters in Brazil, so don’t be surprised if you hear the word referred to somthing other than food.
Information
- Name: Coxinha
- Cost: $
- Best place to find them: São Paulo, Brazil
7. Feijoada
Source: Helder Ribeiro
Feijoada is often referred to as Brazil’s national dish. It is a hearty stew of beans, beef, and pork. As a celebratory dish, feijoada is traditionally intended to be a leisurely midday meal, usually served on weekend afternoons. It is meant to be snacked on throughout the day and not eaten under rushed circumstances. Because of the dish’s heavy ingredients and rich flavors, feijoada is viewed as Brazilian soul food. circumstances.
Information
- Name: feijoada
- Cost: $
- Also known as: Brazil’s national dish
8. Romeu e Julieta
Romeu e Julieta, yes, as in that Romeo and Juliet is a traditional Brazilian snack of guava paste and white cheese stacked on top of each other. The sweet and salty combination can be a little surprising to the palate at first, but Brazilians serve this beloved treat up in many forms.
Information
- Name: Romeu e Julieta
- Cost: $
9. Brigadeiro
Source: Van Sweet
Brigadeiro is a common Brazilian sweet snack, created in 1940. It is common throughout the entire country and is present at practically all major Brazilian celebrations. The brigadeiro is made from condensed milk, cocoa powder, butter and chocolate sprinkles to cover the top. It can be cooked in the oven or the microwave, in the form of individual little balls.
Information
- Name: brigadeiro
- Cost: $
- Variantions: toppings can include nuts and fruits
10. Acarajé
Acarajé is a dish made from peeled beans formed into a ball and deep-fried in oil. It is usually served split in half and stuffed with spicy pastes made from shrimp, ground cashews, palm oil, and other local ingredients. Green tomatoes nad hot peppers are common in a vegetarian version.
Information
- Name: acarajé
- Cost: $
- Variation: abara where the ingredients are boiled and not fried
Brazil has so much to offer the traveler. It also has plenty of snacks to keep you fueled for your next adventure. The next time you’re in Brazil make sure you try some of these tasty treats.
Have a good trip and travel!
