The Brazilian approach to food reflects the many
cultural influences on the region, with a fusion of
European, African and native foods. There are
regional variations, with Italian and German
influences more common in the south and native
cooking more common in the North. Among my
favourites are the pastel pastries and rice balls
common in the centre-west of the country.
The Brazilian
Kitchen :
The Review
by James Marwood
Huge chunks of roasted meat carved at your table
by passing waiters. Mountains of salad and rice.
Caipirinha by the bucketful. Brazilian churrascaria
barbecue restaurants are famous for the quality
and quantity of their food. However this is only a
small proportion of the amazing food this vibrant
country has to offer.
Ms Schwartz’ book covers many of these, and also
gives helpful suggestions for substituting
ingredients. Hearts of palm, dendê oil, açaí and
other exotic ingredients can be hard to find
outside of major cities. Many cities in Europe and
the US do now have Brazilian stores however and
these are well worth visiting. Not only for more
unusual ingredients but also for the excellent and
keenly priced meat most carry. The uniquely
Brazilian picanha cut of steak is a treat, especially
when cooked with lots of garlic and lemon juice.
It’s also worth searching out the smaller Brazilian
restaurants and cafes, such as London’s Cafe do
Gaucho. Especially during the week these often
offer traditional food, and the prices are
invariably excellent.
I still love the mountains of meat at the
churrascar ia but Ms Shwartz’ book has opened
my eyes to the variety of delicious recipes from
Brazil. It’s become a regular feature in my kitchen
and I’m still only scratching the surface of what it
has to offer.
Leticia Moreinos Schwartz’ The Brazilian Kitchen
gives the home cook a view on this fabulous
cuisine, covering everything from simple starters
and side dishes to deserts and of course the
delicious main courses. I’ve been cooking from this
book for a couple of years, and even my foodie
Brazilian partner has been impressed.
My favourite is the Moqueca de peixe baiana fish
curry. Flavoured with garlic, ginger and coconut,
this is a hearty meal, perfect for friends or for a
weekend treat. Paired with Pão de queijo cheese
bread balls, it is guaranteed to bring a cheer when
served.
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The Reviews