Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Brazil? Then get ready to make Biscoito de Polvilho! These delightful little cassava flour biscuits are incredibly crispy, subtly sweet, and utterly addictive. Perfect for a quick snack, a party appetizer, or even alongside a hearty stew, this easy recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this incredibly satisfying recipe.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight project or a fun weekend baking session.
- 1 cup tapioca starch (also known as polvilho doce)
- 1/2 cup cassava flour (polvilho azedo) – Note: Using only polvilho doce will result in a less crispy biscuit. The combination is key!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (plus extra for brushing)
- 1/2 cup boiling water
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Magic in the Kitchen
Let's get baking! These instructions are designed to be easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
Step 1: Combining Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the tapioca starch, cassava flour, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents lumps.
Step 2: Adding the Oil: Add the vegetable oil to the dry ingredients and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Incorporating Boiling Water: Carefully pour the boiling water into the mixture, stirring constantly with a fork or a sturdy spatula. The dough will come together quickly. Be careful as the water is hot!
Step 4: Kneading the Dough: Once the dough cools slightly, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for a few minutes until the dough is smooth and slightly elastic. Avoid over-kneading, as this can make the biscuits tough.
Step 5: Shaping the Biscoitos: Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter, knife, or even a drinking glass to cut out small rounds or squares.
Step 6: Baking to Perfection: Place the biscoitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops lightly with vegetable oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Cooling and Enjoying: Let the biscoitos cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This allows them to fully crisp up.
Tips for the Perfect Biscoito
- Don't over-knead the dough: Over-kneading will result in tough biscuits. Gentle kneading is key!
- Use a good quality tapioca starch: The quality of your ingredients will affect the final result.
- Let the biscuits cool completely: This ensures they reach maximum crispiness.
- Store in an airtight container: Once cooled, store your biscoitos in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
Delicious Variations to Explore
- Cheese Biscoitos: Add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the dough for a savory twist.
- Herb Biscoitos: Incorporate your favorite dried herbs, like rosemary or oregano, for an aromatic flavor.
- Sweet Biscoitos: Add a tablespoon of sugar to the dough for a slightly sweeter biscuit.
Nutritional Information (per biscuit - approximate)
This will vary based on the size of your biscuits. Consider using a nutrition calculator for a more precise estimate based on your specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 50-70 calories
- Fat: Approximately 3-5 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 8-12 grams
- Protein: Approximately 1 gram
This recipe is a delightful addition to your collection of healthy meals and easy recipes. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and the authentic taste of Brazil! These quick dinner ideas are great for any occasion and are sure to impress your family and friends. They're a true testament to the joy of homemade cooking and are definitely among the best recipes you'll ever try!