Pão de Queijo - Brazilian Cheese Bread

Pão de Queijo is a delightful cheese bread snack that hails from Brazil, specifically the state of Minas Gerais. This gluten-free treat is loved for its lightly crispy outside and chewy, cheesy center. It is traditionally enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon delicacy. The origin of this bread dates back to the 18th century when enslaved Africans used cassava dough with any leftover cheese available. Over time, it became a staple in Brazilian households and is now a popular snack served in various adaptations throughout the country, notably as Pão de Queijo Paulista in São Paulo.

Ingredients

• Tapioca Flour - 2 cups
• Milk - 1 cup
• Vegetable Oil - 1/2 cup
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Egg - 2 large
• Parmesan Cheese, grated - 1 cup
• Mozzarella Cheese, grated - 1 cup

Preparation

Before beginning the preparation, gather all ingredients and tools needed, such as a large mixing bowl, a saucepan, and a baking sheet. The preparation starts by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial to ensure the Pão de Queijo is cooked evenly.

Mixing the dough

1. In a saucepan, combine milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This mixture is often referred to as a roux, used to bind the tapioca flour into a cohesive dough.
2. Remove the mixture from heat and gradually add 2 cups of tapioca flour, stirring vigorously. This step creates a paste which is the base of the Pão de Queijo.
3. Allow the paste to cool for about 10 minutes before adding eggs. Stir the eggs in one at a time until fully incorporated, resulting in a smooth, sticky dough.
4. Fold in the parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Shaping and Baking

Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

1. With oiled hands, scoop small amounts of dough and roll them into golf-ball-sized spheres, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
2. Place the balls spaced evenly apart on the baking sheet as these will puff slightly while baking.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the Pão de Queijo is lightly golden with a firm crust. If unsure about the time, you can use a cooking timer to track the baking duration accurately.

Enjoying Pão de Queijo

Once baked, the Pão de Queijo should be enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Its aroma and texture are best appreciated when warm. In Brazil, it's often consumed alone as a snack or complemented with a beverage such as fresh coffee or a sweet chimarrão. These cheese breads are not only a treat for the palate but also a cultural experience. Try them with traditional accompaniments like creamy cheese spread or olive tapenade. Should you have leftover pão, store them in an airtight container and reheat briefly for optimal taste.

Whether you're exploring Brazilian cuisine for the first time or revisiting this beloved classic, Pão de Queijo offers a flavor-packed bite resonant with historical significance and culinary innovation.