Introduction:
Pão de Queijo is a beloved Brazilian snack known for its irresistible texture—crispy on the outside, yet delightfully chewy and airy on the inside. Made from tapioca flour and cheese, this gluten-free treat is often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack with coffee. The unique chewiness comes from the use of tapioca flour, giving it a characteristic texture that sets it apart from other breads. Whether served fresh from the oven or paired with savory spreads, Pão de Queijo is a comforting favorite in Brazilian homes.
Ingredients:
- 250g tapioca flour (also called tapioca starch)
- 120ml whole milk
- 60ml vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 100g grated Parmesan cheese
- 100g grated mozzarella or other soft cheese (optional, for extra cheesy flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. - Heat the Wet Ingredients:
In a small saucepan, combine the milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture just comes to a boil. Remove from heat as soon as it begins to bubble. - Mix with Tapioca Flour:
Place the tapioca flour in a large mixing bowl. Pour the hot milk mixture over the tapioca flour and stir quickly with a spatula until the mixture forms a dough and becomes sticky. Let it cool for a few minutes. - Incorporate the Egg and Cheese:
Once the dough has cooled slightly, add the egg and mix it into the dough until well combined. The dough will be sticky. Add the grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, mixing thoroughly until you get a smooth dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl. - Shape the Dough:
With oiled or damp hands, scoop small portions of dough (about the size of a tablespoon) and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for expansion. - Bake the Pão de Queijo:
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the Pão de Queijo are golden and puffed. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Health Notes:
- Pão de Queijo is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. However, it is high in starch and cheese, which can contribute to a higher caloric intake if consumed in large quantities. For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat cheese varieties. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pão de Queijo is best served warm, straight out of the oven, to enjoy the contrast between the crispy exterior and chewy interior. Pair it with coffee for a traditional Brazilian breakfast or serve alongside soups and salads. For a savory twist, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.
Tips:
- Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky to handle, let it rest for a few more minutes to cool. You can also lightly oil your hands before shaping the dough balls to make handling easier.
- Cheese Variety: While Parmesan is commonly used, feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or gruyere, for varied flavor profiles.
- Freeze for Later: You can freeze the unbaked dough balls and bake them straight from frozen. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh Pão de Queijo anytime by baking for a few minutes longer.
