Introduction:
Café da manhã Paulista represents the vibrant flavors of São Paulo, Brazil, blending European and Brazilian influences into a rich breakfast experience. Known for its hearty portions, this meal typically includes pão francês (French bread), cold cuts like mortadella, various cheeses, and fresh tropical fruits. Accompanied by strong Brazilian coffee and sometimes tapioca, this breakfast is both indulgent and energizing, providing the perfect start to a busy day. It reflects the culinary diversity of São Paulo, with options ranging from sweet to savory, and light to filling.
Ingredients:
- 4 pão francês (French rolls) or similar crusty bread
- 200 g mortadella (or ham)
- 200 g assorted cheeses (such as Minas, mozzarella, or provolone)
- 4 slices of tapioca bread or tapioca crepes (optional)
- 4 large eggs, prepared as desired (scrambled, fried, or poached)
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 2 papayas, cut into cubes
- 1 mango, cubed
- 100 g butter or margarine
- 100 g guava paste (goiabada)
- Coffee (strong Brazilian-style)
- Fresh orange juice
Instructions:
- Prepare the bread: Warm the pão francês or French rolls in the oven until the crust is crispy. Serve with butter or margarine on the side.
- Prepare the proteins: Arrange the mortadella, ham, or other cold cuts on a serving platter. Slice the cheese and arrange it alongside.
- Cook the eggs: Depending on preference, scramble, fry, or poach the eggs. Serve them fresh and warm.
- Make tapioca: If including tapioca, prepare the crepes by heating tapioca starch in a non-stick pan until it binds into a flat, soft disk. Fold in butter or cheese as a filling.
- Prepare the fruit platter: Slice the bananas, papayas, and mango, and arrange them beautifully on a platter.
- Beverages: Brew a strong pot of Brazilian coffee and freshly squeeze oranges for juice.
Health Notes:
- This breakfast can be high in sodium due to the cold cuts and cheese, so choose lower-sodium options if needed. For a healthier version, add more fresh fruit and replace butter with avocado. Avoid excess processed meats to reduce fat and sodium intake.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Café da manhã Paulista family-style, with all components laid out so that everyone can assemble their own plates. This meal pairs beautifully with freshly brewed coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.
Tips:
- For a more authentic experience, use Brazilian cheeses like queijo Minas.
- Swap out mortadella for turkey ham or lean cold cuts if you prefer a lighter option.
- Prepare the tapioca crepes with fillings like cheese, guava paste, or coconut for a sweet and savory twist.
