Coxinha: Brazil's Beloved Street Food
Description:
Indulge in the flavors of Brazil with Coxinha: delectable shredded chicken wrapped in a doughy exterior, battered and fried to golden perfection. Want to experience a taste of Brazil? Learn how to make this iconic Brazilian snack at home.
Historical Background:
Coxinha has roots in Brazilian culinary traditions, becoming widely popular in the 19th century. Initially a royal treat, it transformed into a beloved street food enjoyed by all. Its name, meaning "little thigh," reflects its unique teardrop shape resembling a chicken drumstick.
Key Ingredients:
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Shredded chicken
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Chicken broth
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Cream cheese (optional)
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Flour
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Eggs
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Bread crumbs
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Oil for frying
Flavor Profile:
Coxinha offers a delightful combination of crispy and soft textures with savory chicken filling. The creamy cheese (if added) enhances the richness, while the crispy coating provides a satisfying crunch with every bite.
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Culinary Insights:
Coxinha is more than just a snack; it symbolizes Brazilian ingenuity and love for comfort food. Making coxinha at home connects you to Brazil’s vibrant street food culture and its tradition of enjoying flavorful, hearty snacks.
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Ingredients:
For the Dough:
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2 cups chicken broth
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2 cups flour
For the Filling:
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2 cups shredded chicken
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1/2 cup cream cheese (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Coating:
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2 eggs, beaten
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2 cups bread crumbs
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Oil for frying
Instructions:
Prepare the Filling:
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Cook the Chicken: Boil chicken breasts in water until cooked through. Shred the chicken finely.
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Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with cream cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Dough:
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Make the Dough: In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Gradually add flour, stirring constantly until a smooth dough forms. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Assemble the Coxinha:
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Shape the Dough: Take a small portion of dough and flatten it into a disk.
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Add Filling: Place a spoonful of chicken filling in the center of the dough disk. Fold the dough over the filling and shape it into a teardrop (drumstick) shape.
Coat and Fry:
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Coat the Coxinha: Dip each coxinha in beaten eggs, then roll in bread crumbs to coat.
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Fry: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot. Fry the coxinha in batches until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Serve:
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Enjoy: Serve hot with a side of spicy dipping sauce or as is. Enjoy your authentic Brazilian coxinha, perfect for any occasion!