Moqueca
Ted Cavanaugh
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South American cuisine is incredibly rich and diverse, in large part thanks to the food of Brazil, which fuses indigenous, European, and African influences. While a national identity, and cuisine, may be hard to pin down, it’s Brazil’s vast range of regional fare that make it unique. Brazil is home to some of the world’s best grilled meats and best stews—we especially love the salt cod. From feijoada to fudge truffles, here are our best Brazilian recipes.

"Moqueca"

Brazilian Fish and Coconut Milk Stew

"Brazilian
Bahians like to ­finish this chunky salsa with a bit of juice from the moqueca, or whatever dish it is meant to accompany. The term lambão comes from the Latin lambere, “to pass the tongue over something.” In Bahia, the traditional mala­gueta chiles are said to ward off negative energy associated with some of the orixás, or spiritual beings. Look for malaguetas and pimenta de cheiro at farmers’ markets, or substitute drained jarred malaguetas from a Brazilian grocer and fresh serranos. Get the recipe for Brazilian Chile and Tomato Salsa (Molho Lambão) »
"Brazilian

Brazilian Beans with Smoked Pork, Rice and Collards (Feijoada)

Brazilian Beans with Smoked Pork, Rice and Collards (Feijoada)
See the Recipe
"Strawberry

Strawberry Cachaça Shake

Use an aged cachaça like Avuà Amburana to add warm depth to this fruity drink. Get the recipe for Strawberry Cachaça Shake »
"Brigadeiros"

Brigadeiros (Brazilian Fudge Balls)

"Brazilian

Brazilian Pickled Chiles (Conserva de Pimenta)

These Brazilian pickled chiles are a classic condiment alongside rice and beans, roast pork, or fish.
"Steak

Steak with Melted Mozzarella (Filé Marajoara)

Fresh water buffalo cheese melted over filet mignon is a classic dish of Soure, Brazil; mozzarella is a perfect substitute. This recipe first appeared in our June/July 2012 issue along with Neide Rigo’s story Passage to the Amazon. Get the recipe for Steak with Melted Mozzarella »
"Banana

Banana and Cheese Pudding (Sombremesa de Banana com Queijo)

Fresh bananas layered with sweetened condensed milk and cream cheese combine in a sumptuous Brazilian dessert. Get the recipe for Banana and Cheese Pudding »
"Brazilian

Brazilian Shrimp Stew (Vapatá)

Brazilian Shrimp Stew (Vatapá)
"Brazilian

Brazilian Salt Cod Stew

Salt cod is a staple in South America, the Caribbean, and Europe. This recipe comes from Neide Rigo, a Brazilian food blogger. Get the recipe for Brazilian Salt Cod Stew »

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