Must-try Dishes
Pão de Queijo - Cheese Bread - These small, cheesy rolls are made with cassava flour and cheese, creating a chewy and crispy texture. Perfect for breakfast, locals usually enjoy them fresh, often paired with coffee.
Kibe - Kibbeh - Ground beef mixed with bulgur, spices, and onion, shaped into a bulging oval and fried until golden. Street vendors sell these alongside cold drinks, enjoying them as an afternoon snack or quick lunch.
Feijão Tropeiro - Tropeiro Beans - A hearty mix of beans, sausage, bacon, and manioc flour, all sautéed together to create a savory dish with rich flavors. It's often a lunch staple at family gatherings and feasts, bringing everyone together.
Frango com Quiabo - Chicken with Okra - Tender chicken stewed with okra and seasoned with garlic and onions, served with rice and farofa. This dish is a beloved specialty at Sunday family meals, often shared among relatives.
Torresmo - Pork Cracklings - Crispy fried pieces of pork belly, seasoned and usually served with a splash of lime. It's often a surprise addition to rice and beans, enjoyed as a savory side or snack during barbecues.
Arroz com Pequi - Rice with Pequi - A rich, fragrant rice dish cooked with the unique pequi fruit, known for its bold flavor. This traditional dish hails from the cerrado and is especially popular in the rainy season when pequi is in bloom.
Moqueca - Fish Stew - A fragrant stew made of fish, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, simmered until the flavors meld. Typically reserved for festive occasions, it’s a dish best shared at dinner gatherings, as it brings friends and family closer.
Feijoada - Black Bean Stew - This thick stew features black beans and a variety of meats, often served with rice, kale, and orange slices on the side. Local restaurants serve this hearty meal on Wednesdays and Saturdays, making it a special tradition worth exploring.
Desserts & Drinks
Guaraná - Guaraná (natural soda) - A sweet, carbonated drink made from the guaraná fruit, known for its refreshing taste and slight energy boost. You'll find locals enjoying it during hot afternoons, often paired with a slice of bolo de cenoura (carrot cake).
Cafe com Leite - Café com Leite (coffee with milk) - A half-and-half concoction of rich Brazilian coffee and creamy milk, served hot and typically enjoyed at breakfast or during afternoon breaks. It's customary to have it with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.
Caipirinha - Caipirinha (lime cocktail) - The classic Brazilian cocktail made with cachaça, muddled lime, and sugar, served over ice. Locals love to sip it while hanging out with friends at any outdoor bar, especially during weekend gatherings.
Rocambole - Rocambole (cream-filled roll) - A soft, sponge cake rolled around a rich filling, often chocolate or guava. Commonly served at birthday parties and celebrations, it's usually enjoyed slightly chilled, making it a delightful treat after a meal.
Pudim - Pudim (flan-like dessert) - A smooth, creamy custard topped with a sweet caramel sauce, often enjoyed at family gatherings. It’s typically served cold, and locals love to eat it with a fork, despite its spoon-friendly texture.