Minas Moon Cheese Bites

About Minas Moon Cheese Bites

Minas Moon Cheese Bites are a delightful snack inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Brazil's Minas Gerais region. Known for its agriculture and dairy products, particularly cheeses, this region has crafted a legacy of unique and flavorful delicacies. The dish's name evokes the shape and texture of these bite-sized snacks, reminiscent of small moons glowing with cheesy goodness. The combination of cheese from this region with other carefully chosen ingredients ensures a crowd pleaser for both casual and gourmet occasions.

History

The origins of the Minas Moon Cheese Bites can be traced back to traditional Brazilian cheese bread, known as Pão de Queijo, which was born in the 18th century. With the influence of African and Portuguese culinary traditions, these cheese bites have evolved over the centuries. Minas Gerais, being the birthplace of Pão de Queijo, prides itself on innovative cheese recipes and traditional breads. The modern twist of Moon Cheese Bites was developed to provide a snack that preserves the authentic flavors while presenting a new form factor easy to serve on any occasion.

Ingredients

• Minas Cheese - 200 grams
• Parmesan - 100 grams
• Tapioca Flour - 250 grams
• Milk - 100 milliliters
• Butter - 50 grams
• Eggs - 2 large
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Olive Oil - For greasing

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you start with the mixture, make sure to preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Proper preheating is essential to ensure even baking, helping the Minas Cheese melt perfectly within the tapioca flour dough.

Step 2: Grate the Cheese

Grate the Minas Cheese and the Parmesan. Ensure that the cheese is finely grated to blend seamlessly into the mixture, contributing to the texture and richness of the bites. Set aside the cheese for later use.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

In a medium-sized pot, combine the milk, butter, and salt. Cook the mixture over medium heat until the butter has melted completely and the mixture reaches a gentle simmer. Remove the pot from the heat and immediately add the tapioca flour, stirring vigorously until you achieve a dough-like consistency. Allow this to cool slightly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Eggs

Fold the grated Minas Cheese and Parmesan into the dough. Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and beat them lightly before adding them to the dough. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until the dough is smooth and homogeneous, ensuring all elements are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Shape the Bites

Lightly grease your palms with olive oil to prevent sticking. Pinch off small portions of the dough and roll them between your hands to form balls approximately the size of a walnut. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring ample space between each ball to allow for expansion during baking.

Cooking Process

Step 6: Bake the Bites

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the Minas Moon Cheese Bites for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the process through your cooking timer to prevent overbrowning. The bites are ready when they are puffed up and develop a nice golden hue on the surface.

Serving Suggestions

Once baked, remove the bites from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve warm for the best texture, where the center remains soft and cheesy, while the outer layers exhibit a crispy crust. These bites are perfect as appetizers for parties, or as part of a brunch spread. They pair excellently with a glass of red wine or a refreshing citrus water.

Storage Tips

If there are any leftovers, allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They can also be frozen and reheated for later consumption, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor.