Pão de Queijo (Cheese Bread) Recipe
Ingredients:
- 200ml (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp) whole milk
- 80ml (1/3 cup) vegetable oil
- 5g (1 tsp) sea salt
- 250g (2 cups) tapioca flour (starch)
- 100g (1 cup) grated parmesan cheese
- 100g (1 cup) grated mozzarella or any semi-hard cheese
- 2 large eggs
Introduction
Pão de Queijo, or Brazilian Cheese Bread, is a delightful treat that brings a taste of Brazil into your kitchen. Known for its crispy outside and chewy, cheesy inside, this iconic snack is perfect for breakfast, tea time, or as an appetizer for any social gathering. Originating from the state of Minas Gerais, Pão de Queijo has found a place in hearts worldwide. And the best part? They’re naturally gluten-free, making them a favorite amongst all types of eaters.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Medium Saucepan
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Oven
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 45 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough Base
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Mix the Flour
Remove the mixture from heat and immediately add the tapioca flour. Stir quickly with a wooden spoon until the mixture is smooth and combined. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture, as heat activates the tapioca starch, creating a gelatinous dough.
Step 3: Incorporate Cheese
Let the dough cool slightly, then transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the grated cheeses to the dough and mix with your hands or a spatula until the cheeses are well incorporated. The warmth from the dough will help melt the cheese, adding to the flavor and texture.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing until the dough becomes smooth and sticky. It should be glossy and somewhat elastic. Don’t worry if the dough seems sticky; that’s the nature of tapioca flour and the cheeses.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
With slightly oiled hands, scoop tablespoons of dough and roll into balls approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) in diameter. Place each ball onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart to allow for expansion.
Step 6: Bake the Cheese Bread
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls have puffed up and turned golden on the outside. The aroma of melting cheese will fill your kitchen, an unmistakable sign that your Pão de Queijo is nearly ready.
Conclusion
Pão de Queijo is more than just cheese bread; it’s a culinary embrace, rich with Brazilian tradition. Each bite serves up a symphony of textures and flavors, from the crisp golden crust to the chewy, cheesy center. Perfect your technique with practice, experiment with different cheeses, and soon, you will have mastered the art of this delectable Latin American classic. Whether enjoyed by themselves or accompanied by a steaming cup of coffee, these cheese breads will delight and satisfy every moment they’re shared.
