Pato com Pequi

Pato com Pequi is a traditional Brazilian dish, particularly popular in the central and northern regions. The main ingredients are duck and pequi, a fruit native to central Brazil, known for its unique flavor and aroma. This dish is a perfect representation of the fusion between indigenous and Portuguese culinary traditions in Brazil.

Ingredients

• Duck - 1 whole, cleaned and cut into pieces
• Pequi - 10 fruits, cleaned
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Olive Oil - 3 tablespoons
• Cilantro - 1/2 cup, chopped
• Water - 4 cups
• Salt - To taste
• Black Pepper - To taste

Preparation

Marinating the Duck

Begin by marinating the duck pieces with salt, black pepper, and half of the cilantro. Let it sit for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.

Preparing the Pequi

While the duck marinates, clean the pequi fruits by removing the skin and seeds. It's essential to handle pequi cautiously as they have hard seeds surrounded by pulp.

Cooking Process

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until they become soft and translucent.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the marinated duck pieces to the pot. Brown the duck evenly on all sides.
4. Gently stir in the cleaned pequi fruits and the remaining cilantro.
5. Pour in the water, ensuring that it covers the duck and pequi.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot.
7. Simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the duck is tender and the flavors are well-blended. Check occasionally to ensure there's enough liquid in the pot; add more water if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

Pato com Pequi is best enjoyed with white rice and a fresh salad. The rich flavors of the pequi enhance the taste of the duck, making it a delightful meal. Create a pleasant dining atmosphere with vibrant Brazilian music and enjoy this traditional dish with friends and family.

Remember to time your cooking accurately with a cooking timer to ensure all elements of the dish are perfectly cooked.