Minas Pão de Queijo Molhado

Pão de Queijo, a traditional Brazilian cheese bread, is a staple in the country's cuisine, especially in the state of Minas Gerais. The dish has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, where it was initially made by enslaved people using cassava starch. The contemporary version adds cheese, and this specific recipe, Pão de Queijo Molhado, features a moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Let's delve into the ingredients and methods that bring this delicious treat to life.

Ingredients

• Tapioca Starch - 500g
• Milk - 250ml
• Water - 250ml
• Vegetable Oil - 125ml
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Eggs - 2 large
• Parmesan Cheese - 100g grated
• Minas Cheese - 150g grated
• Mozzarella Cheese - 50g grated

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine milk, water, vegetable oil, and salt in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat and gradually add the tapioca starch, stirring continuously until the mixture forms a cohesive dough. Allow the dough to cool for a few minutes.

Step 2: Incorporate Other Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 180°C. Once the dough is cool enough to handle, crack the eggs into the mixture, one at a time, kneading well after each addition. Add the parmesan cheese, minas cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Continue kneading until the cheese is evenly distributed, and the dough is smooth and sticky.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Shape the dough into small balls, approximately the size of a golf ball, using your hands. To prevent sticking, wet your hands slightly. Place the balls on a lined baking sheet, ensuring sufficient space between each to prevent them from merging during baking.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the Pão de Queijo Molhado has puffed up and exhibits a golden hue. Remember, you can use a cooking timer to keep track of the time.

How to Enjoy

Pão de Queijo Molhado is a versatile snack that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Freshly baked, they are perfect with a cup of coffee or a glass of orange juice for breakfast. They also make a delightful afternoon snack. For a gourmet touch, pair them with a glass of white wine or serve them alongside a selection of cold cuts. Their rich cheesy flavor and moist texture truly shine, making them a standalone treat or a complement to any meal.