Looking to add a taste of Brazil to your kitchen? Look no further than this authentic Brazilian Escondidinho recipe. Bursting with flavors and rich in tradition, this dish is a must-try for any food lover. With a combination of delectable ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you’ll be transported to the vibrant streets of Brazil with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. So grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with this traditional Escondidinho recipe.
Ingredients
Manioc root (cassava)
The key ingredient in making authentic Brazilian Escondidinho is manioc root, also known as cassava. This starchy root vegetable is widely used in Brazilian cuisine and adds a unique texture and flavor to the dish.
Butter
To make the mashed manioc root creamy and rich, you will need butter. It adds a delicious and velvety touch to the final dish, making it incredibly satisfying.
Milk
Another essential ingredient for the mashed manioc root is milk. It helps to bind the ingredients together and contributes to the creamy consistency of the dish.
Salt
Salt is a must-have seasoning in any dish, and Escondidinho is no exception. It helps to enhance the flavors in the dish and bring out the natural taste of the other ingredients.
Ground beef
The heart of the Escondidinho lies in the savory ground beef filling. Choose high-quality lean ground beef for the best results, as it will add great flavor and texture to the dish.
Onion
To add a sweet and aromatic element to the beef filling, you’ll need chopped onion. It provides a delightful flavor and helps to build complexity in the dish.
Garlic
Garlic is a staple in many recipes around the world, and Escondidinho is no different. Its pungent and flavorful profile enhances the savory taste of the ground beef and adds depth to the overall dish.
Tomato sauce
For a rich and robust flavor, tomato sauce is a must in the Escondidinho recipe. It balances the savory notes of the beef and creates a deliciously comforting filling.
Bay leaves
To infuse the dish with a subtle and earthy aroma, bay leaves are added. They complement the flavors of the beef and provide a pleasant herbal note.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds a touch of spiciness and warmth to the dish. It pairs perfectly with the other spices and seasonings, making the final dish even more flavorful.
Salt
In addition to the salt used in the mashed manioc root, a bit of additional salt is needed to season the beef filling. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Preparation
Peel and cook the manioc root until soft
To start, peel the manioc root and cut it into small pieces. Boil the pieces until they become tender and soft. This process will ensure that the final mashed manioc root is smooth and creamy.
Mash the cooked manioc root with butter, milk, and salt
Once the manioc root is cooked and soft, drain the boiled pieces and mash them until smooth. Add butter, milk, and salt to the mashed manioc root, and continue mixing until all the ingredients are well combined. The result will be a luscious and velvety puree.
Heat oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onion and garlic
In a pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant. This step creates a beautifully aromatic base for the beef filling.
Add ground beef to the pan and cook until browned
Once the onion and garlic are sautéed, add the ground beef to the pan. Cook it over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Make sure to continuously stir and break up any clumps to ensure even cooking.
Stir in the tomato sauce, bay leaves, black pepper, and salt
Once the ground beef is browned, it’s time to add the flavorful ingredients. Stir in the tomato sauce, bay leaves, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients will infuse the beef with a rich and robust taste, creating a mouthwatering filling.
Simmer the beef mixture for a few minutes
To allow the flavors to meld together, let the beef mixture simmer for a few minutes. This step ensures that the filling becomes even more aromatic and delicious.
In a baking dish, layer the mashed manioc root and beef mixture
To assemble the Escondidinho, start by spreading a layer of the mashed manioc root in a baking dish. Follow it with a layer of the beef mixture, spreading it evenly over the manioc root layer. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used, usually creating two or three layers.
Bake in the oven until the top is golden and crispy
Preheat the oven to a moderate temperature and bake the assembled Escondidinho until the top turns golden and crispy. This step gives the dish a delightful crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mashed manioc root and savory beef filling.
Serving
Serve hot as a main dish
Escondidinho is meant to be enjoyed hot, straight from the oven. It makes for a hearty and comforting main dish that is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. The combination of creamy mashed manioc root and flavorful beef filling will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Garnish with fresh parsley
To add a burst of freshness and color to the dish, garnish your Escondidinho with finely chopped fresh parsley. Not only does it elevate the presentation, but it also adds a lovely herbal note that enhances the overall taste.
Pair with a side salad or rice
Escondidinho can be enjoyed on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or rice to round out the meal. A crisp green salad or a fluffy bowl of white rice will complement the flavors and textures of the dish, creating a well-balanced and satisfying dining experience.
With these simple and easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate an authentic Brazilian Escondidinho in your own kitchen. This traditional dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Brazil and will surely impress your family and friends. So, gather the ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of Escondidinho!