Pão de Queijo de Ervas de Minas
Background and History
Pão de queijo, or cheese bread, is a beloved Brazilian snack, originating from the state of Minas Gerais. This version, infused with a variety of fresh herbs, adds a delightful twist to the traditional recipe, bringing a burst of flavor and aroma. The marriage of cheese with aromatic herbs pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of Minas Gerais, known for its artisanal cheeses and lush landscapes.
Ingredients
- Tapioca starch - 2 cups
- Whole milk - 1 cup
- Olive oil - 1/2 cup
- Parmesan cheese, grated - 1 cup
- Mozzarella cheese, grated - 1 cup
- Eggs - 2 large
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Basil, chopped - 2 tablespoons
- Oregano, chopped - 1 tablespoon
- Thyme, chopped - 1 tablespoon
- Chives, chopped - 2 tablespoons
Preparation
Before starting, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, olive oil, and salt. Stir occasionally and just before it begins to boil, remove it from heat.
- Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into a large bowl containing the tapioca starch. Mix well using a wooden spoon until smooth. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes, cooling slightly.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition until incorporated.
- Stir in the parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, basil, oregano, thyme, and chives. Mix until the dough is soft and sticky.
Cooking Process
Using your hands, shape the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until they are golden and puffy. Keep an eye on them after 20 minutes as each oven can vary. Use a cooking timer to ensure precision.
- Allow them to cool slightly on the tray before serving warm.
Enjoying Pão de Queijo de Ervas
This cheese bread can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven, offering a warm and cheesy center with a delightful herbal aroma. Pair it with a strong coffee or afternoon tea, the combination of which enhances the richness of the cheese and freshness of the herbs. It also accompanies well with a light salad or a glass of chilled sparkling wine.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes to regain their original texture and flavor.