John Myers
Coxinha: A Delicious Brazilian Snack
Coxinha is a tasty and popular Brazilian snack that has won the hearts of millions of people worldwide. This savory delight is made up of a dough filled with chicken and other ingredients, deep-fried to perfection. Coxinha has a unique teardrop shape that makes it stand out from other snacks. This delicacy is perfect for parties, picnics, and any other occasion where you want to enjoy a delicious, filling snack.
A Brief History of Coxinha
Coxinha has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century in Brazil. It was first made by a lady named Dona Brazília, who lived in the state of São Paulo. Dona Brazília was renowned for her culinary skills and was asked to prepare a special snack for Prince Gaston d’Orléans, who was visiting Brazil at the time. Dona Brazília created a snack made of shredded chicken that was coated in a dough, shaped like a chicken leg, and deep-fried. The prince loved the snack and named it “coxinha,” which means “little thigh” in Portuguese.
Ingredients of Coxinha
The dough for Coxinha is made from a combination of wheat flour, chicken broth, milk, butter, and salt. The filling is made up of shredded chicken, onions, garlic, parsley, and other spices that are sautéed in oil. Some variations of Coxinha also include cream cheese or catupiry, a Brazilian cheese spread that adds creaminess to the filling.
Preparing the Dough for Coxinha
To make the dough for Coxinha, the flour is mixed with chicken broth, milk, butter, and salt until it forms a smooth dough. The dough is then left to rest for a few minutes before it is rolled out and cut into circles. The circles are then filled with the chicken mixture and shaped into the iconic teardrop shape.
The Filling for Coxinha: Chicken and More
The filling for Coxinha is made by sautéing onions, garlic, and other spices in oil before adding shredded chicken. The chicken is cooked until tender, then mixed with parsley and catupiry cheese, if desired. The filling is then used to stuff the dough, giving the snack its unique flavor.
The Art of Shaping Coxinha
Shaping Coxinha requires a bit of skill and practice. The dough is rolled out into circles, and a spoonful of the filling is placed in the center. The edges of the dough are then brought together to form a teardrop shape, making sure to seal the filling inside. The finished Coxinha is then coated in breadcrumbs, which help to give it a crispy texture when deep-fried.
Deep-Frying Coxinha to Golden Perfection
Once shaped, Coxinha is deep-fried in hot oil until it turns golden brown. The frying process takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the size of the snack. When cooked to perfection, Coxinha should be crispy on the outside and moist and flavorful on the inside.
Serving Coxinha: Accompaniments and Variations
Coxinha is usually served hot, straight out of the fryer. It can be enjoyed on its own or served with a variety of accompaniments, such as hot sauce, ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise. Some variations of Coxinha include vegetarian fillings, such as cheese or mushrooms, for those who prefer a meat-free option.
Coxinha: A Popular Snack in Brazil and Beyond
Coxinha is a beloved snack in Brazil, where it’s enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s also gaining popularity in other parts of the world, such as the United States, where it’s found in Brazilian restaurants and food trucks. Coxinha has a unique taste and texture that makes it stand out from other snacks, which is why it’s become a favorite of foodies worldwide.
Where to Try Coxinha in Brazil and Abroad
If you’re traveling to Brazil, you’ll find Coxinha in many bakeries, cafes, and snack bars. It’s also available in Brazilian restaurants and food trucks in other parts of the world. You can also try making Coxinha at home using the recipe and tips above. With a little practice, you’ll be able to enjoy this delicious Brazilian snack anytime, anywhere.
