Pão de Queijo do Horizonte

About Pão de Queijo do Horizonte

Pão de queijo, a beloved Brazilian snack, originates from the state of Minas Gerais. This cheesy bread has become an integral part of Brazilian cuisine, often enjoyed during breakfast with coffee or as a snack throughout the day. The recipe has evolved over centuries, adapting to local ingredients and techniques, leading to various interpretations, such as the "Pão de Queijo do Horizonte." This version pays homage to the city of Belo Horizonte, blending traditional methods with modern flavors.

Ingredients

• Tapioca flour - 2 cups
• Milk - 1 cup
• Vegetable oil - 1/2 cup
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Eggs - 2 large
• Grated parmesan cheese - 1 cup
• Grated mozzarella cheese - 1 cup

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot enough for the ideal cooking condition. While the oven is heating, you can start preparing the dough.

Step 2: Heat the Wet Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it just starts to boil. This process helps bind the dough and impart flavor throughout.

Step 3: Combine Mixture with Tapioca Flour

In a large mixing bowl, place the tapioca flour. Pour the hot milk and oil mixture over the flour, stirring with a wooden spoon until well combined. Let the mixture cool slightly, allowing it to rest to avoid cooking the eggs in the next step.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Cheese

Once the mixture has cooled slightly, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough will become sticky and stretchy. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and grated mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even distribution.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

With lightly oiled hands, shape the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.

Step 6: Bake the Pão de Queijo

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the pão de queijo is golden brown and puffed. They should be crisp on the outside and soft and chewy inside.

Step 7: Time your Cooking

Set a cooking timer to ensure you don't forget your delicious cheese bread in the oven and get the perfect bake.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your pão de queijo fresh out of the oven for the best texture and flavor. These cheese breads are perfect as a standalone snack or paired with your favorite hot beverage, such as coffee or tea. You can also serve them as a side dish for soups or stews, enhancing each meal with their cheesy goodness.

For an authentic Brazilian experience, serve with a cup of Guaraná, a popular Brazilian soft drink, or a traditional Brazilian coffee prepared using a Moka pot.

Conclusion

The journey of making pão de queijo do Horizonte provides not just a delicious outcome but also a connection to Brazilian culture and culinary heritage. The recipe's simplicity allows for versatility and experimentation, making it accessible to all levels of cooking enthusiasts. By following the steps correctly, using a cooking timer, and ensuring quality ingredients like tapioca flour and a mixture of cheeses, anyone can recreate this delightful Brazilian treat at home.