“Pão de queijo” is a typical dish from Brazilian cuisine, originating from the state of Minas Gerais. It’s a small, airy bread made primarily with cassava flour (both sour and sweet) and cheese, typically Minas cheese or parmesan cheese. It’s a delicacy cherished not only in Brazil but also internationally.
“Pão de queijo” is often enjoyed as a delicious snack or as a side dish in meals. It has a crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, boasting a unique and comforting cheese flavor. The simplicity of the recipe, combined with its irresistible taste, makes “pão de queijo” a popular choice in cafes, bakeries, and even social gatherings.
Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the dough: In a saucepan, heat the milk with the vegetable oil and a pinch of salt. Once it boils, turn off the heat and pour this mixture over the sour tapioca flour in a large bowl. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and let it cool slightly.
Add the eggs and cheese: Once the mixture has cooled slightly, add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Then, add the grated cheese and continue stirring until fully incorporated into the dough. The dough will be sticky but pliable.
Shape the cheese bread: With oiled hands, take small portions of the dough and shape them into balls of desired size, usually about the size of a ping pong ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them so they don’t stick together during baking.
Bake the cheese bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese bread is golden brown on the outside.
Serve hot: Remove the cheese bread from the oven and serve them while still hot. They are best enjoyed fresh, but can also be stored in an airtight container for a few days and reheated in the oven before serving.