What to eat as a vegetarian in Brazil
Brazil is the land of samba, soccer, and sizzling barbecues, but what if you are a vegetarian looking to explore the diverse and delectable cuisine of this South American giant? Fear not, Brazil offers a variety of vegetarian delights, ranging from tropical fruits to unique local dishes that cater to various tastes. Here is a list of some dishes you can try.
Cuscuz Nordestino
Corn flour, manioc starch, salt, water, or coconut milk are the only ingredients needed to make this quick and healthy meal; coconut milk adds a slightly sweet flavor. The process involves moistening the cornmeal and then placing it in a special mold, which can be cylindrical or rectangular, to give it its characteristic shape. It's then steamed, creating a slightly sticky cake-like consistency.
Quibebe
Quibebe is a traditional Brazilian dish with deep roots in the country's culinary heritage. It is a flavorful and tender squash stew made primarily with butternut or pumpkin squash. The squash is typically cooked with ingredients like onions, and garlic. It's often seasoned with a mix of spices, such as cumin and paprika, which give quibebe its distinctive taste.
Pastel
Pastel is a popular and beloved Brazilian snack, typically referred to as "pastel de vento" or simply "pastel." It consists of a thin pastry dough that is filled with various ingredients such as cheese, guava, or vegetables and then deep-fried. Pastel can be found throughout Brazil and is served in street food stalls, markets, and local restaurants.
Vegetarian coxinhas
Coxinhas are a popular Brazilian snack or appetizer made from a dough filled with cheese, spinach, and mushrooms, then deep-fried to a crispy, teardrop shape. These golden balls of delight have soft dough casings filled with the mentioned ingredients, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until they turn golden brown, creating a tasty and crunchy snack. They are typically flavored with onion, garlic, and lime.
