Food & drink in Brazil

Brazil really does seem to have it all. Vibrant cities, a unique culture, steamy jungles, misty forests, and miles of glorious coastline. But the icing on the cake, is the food.

A melting pot of African, Japanese and Portuguese influences, Brazilian food is a unique, hearty and spicy cuisine. Fresh seafood, juicy steaks and heavenly desserts. A holiday wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the best dishes in Brazil.

table spread of traditional food and drink in brazil

What is Brazil's national dish?

Feijoada

You’ll find this delicious, hearty stew eaten in every corner of the country. It's made with beans, sausages and chunks of pork, and served with rice, greens, orange, bacon, farofa and pork scratchings. If made the original way, it takes 24 hours to cook, so it really is a labour of love.

Did you know?

Brazil is the largest producer of Coffee in the world and has been for the past 150 years!

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Vegetarian food in Brazil

Like much of South America, the Brazilian cuisine is somewhat meat-heavy. But that doesn’t mean that vegetarians will starve in Brazil. It just means you might have to search a little bit harder. Many of the street-side vendors and budget restaurants won’t serve vegetarian options. That said, there is still much to try! Some of our favourite vegetarian dishes in Brazil are salgados, brigadeiro, Romeu and Julieta and Mandioca Frita.

Drinks in Brazil

a popular traditional drink in mexico horchata

Cachaca

Made from sugarcane juice, cachaca is Brazil’s national drink. This distilled, fermented spirit is a popular ingredient in many of Brazil's cocktails.

Caldo de Cana

Essentially caldo de cana is the juice made from pressed sugarcane - the perfect drink to cool you down on a hot day.

Cocktails

Brazil has a long list of incredibly good cocktails try. Some of the best are Caipririha, Caipiroska and batida de maracuja.

Agua de coco

One of the best drinks to quench your thirst on a hot, summer’s day is agua de coco - fresh coconut water sipped straight from the coconut.

Where's good to eat in Rio de Janeiro?

*Please note that these recommendations are a current guide only.

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What food should I try in Brazil?

Brigadeiros

Brazil's chocolate truffles are heavenly, and a definite must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. Condensed milk is boiled, cocoa and butter are added, then they are rolled into balls and sprinkled with chocolate — very popular at festivals and events throughout Brazil.

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popular snack or dessert in brazil is brigadeiros chocolate truffles

Pao de queijo

A moorish snack served at any time of the day made from cheese and bread. These cheesy bread rolls are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. You’ll often find them filled with meats or cream cheese. Yum!

Acarajé

Acaraje originates from Bahai but is found all over Brazil. Acaraje is a fritter made from onions and black-eyed peas, filled with spiced or dried shrimp, nuts and bread, and drizzled with hot chilli sauce. One of the best, spicy street-food dishes in Brazil.

Quindim

Quindim is a popular dessert in Brazil and definitely one you need to try. Essentially Quindim is a custard flan, sprinkled with coconut flakes. It's glossy, sweet, has a gel-like consistency and is simply delicious.

Bacalhao

Bacalhao is a traditional Brazilian/Portuguese dish usually served on special occasions. It’s made from salted cod, which is battered and fried to a golden crisp. Bacalhao is traditionally baked with onions, potatoes and tomatoes and served with rice.

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Açaí

Acai is an exotic fruit from the Amazon, eaten by indigenous tribes to restore energy. You’ll find it as a juice, a mixer with vodka, sorbet, or in a smoothie bowl. Acai fruit has recently gained a lot of press due to its ‘superfood qualities’. Try it and see for yourself!

Barbequed meat / picanha

Barbeques or picanhas are very popular in Brazil. An event which usually lasts most of the day, a picanha can include a mix of sausages, cheese on sticks, chicken, pork, lamb or even crocodile and wild boar - anything goes.

moquecca de camarao is a must try dish in brazil

Moqueca de camarao

Moqueca is a hearty, warming fish stew. Brewed in a cloud of deep, fragrant steam, juicy tomatoes, pungent onions and garlic, and fresh coriander. In some regions of Brazil, it’s also made with peppers and coconut milk.

Coxinhas

Essentially Coxinhas is a pile of thinly shredded chicken encased in dough, battered and fried. It is often also mixed with cream cheese. Crispy and golden on the outside and fluffy and soft in the middle. You'll never be able to stop at just one.