Pão de Queijo

Introduction

Pão de Queijo, or Brazilian cheese bread, is a popular snack in Brazil, cherished for its crispy exterior and chewy, cheesy interior. This delightful bread boasts a history rooted in colonial Brazil when the indigenous tapioca flour met European dairy traditions. Over the centuries, it evolved into a household favorite throughout Brazil, often enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Its fame has crossed borders, and now Páo de Queijo is enjoyed worldwide by anyone seeking a gluten-free, cheesy delight.

Ingredients

• Tapioca flour - 2 cups
• Milk - 1 cup
• Vegetable oil - 1/2 cup
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Eggs - 2 large
• Parmesan cheese - 1 cup, grated
• Mozzarella cheese - 1 cup, grated

Preparation

To ensure your Pão de Queijo is just as delectable as one from a Brazilian kitchen, take time to gather and measure all your ingredients carefully:

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will save you time later once the dough is ready.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Heat this mixture over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a gentle simmer. Ensure the salt is completely dissolved.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and, using a wooden spoon or spatula, gradually stir in the tapioca flour. The mixture will have a sticky, thick consistency.
4. Allow the dough to cool slightly—enough so you can touch it without discomfort.

Step 2: Adding Eggs and Cheese

1. Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the dough, mixing vigorously after each addition to ensure they are fully integrated. The dough should be smooth and glossy.
2. Mix in both the parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough will be fragrant and even more elastic.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Shaping and Baking

1. With your hands lightly oiled to prevent sticking, shape the dough into small balls, approximately the size of golf balls. Uniform size ensures consistent baking.
2. Arrange the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, allowing about an inch between each as they will expand during baking.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the balls have puffed and the tops are lightly golden. You can use a cooking timer to track the baking duration accurately.
4. Remove from oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoying Your Pão de Queijo

Pão de Queijo is best enjoyed freshly baked, while the outside is still warm with a crisp texture, and the inside remains soft and chewy. They pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or your favorite tea, making them a perfect treat for any time of the day.

For a special twist, consider filling these cheese breads with delicious extras such as guava paste, ham, or even more cheese for an indulgent version.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. You can reheat them in an oven to regain that fresh-baked feel.

Conclusion

Whether you're enjoying them as a morning delight or an evening snack, Pão de Queijo encapsulates the comforting flavors and textures that make it a timeless favorite. With every bite, enjoy the fusion of indigenous and European culinary traditions, bringing a piece of Brazil to your table.