5 Authentic Brazilian Recipes to Celebrate Carnaval
By: Leah Rodrigues
Published: February 16, 2015

The music, the dancers, the food, February 13 through Feburary 18 marks Carnaval in Brazilian, a parade of exorbitant proportions dedicated to having a good time.  This celebration is akin to Mardi Gras where it is meant to represent the last splurges before lent.  If you can't make it down to Brazil is participate in the fun, you can certainly prepare one of these dishes to make you feel like you are at the center of the action.
Panqueca de Carne Moida (Brazilian Crêpes with Meat Filling)
Recipe from Cynthia Presser
Panqueca de carne moida can easily feed a crowd.  Delicate crepes are stuffed with ground beef seasoned with carrot, onion, garlic and more.  A bechamel sauce is poured over the top and the entire casserole is baked. Your family is going to love this homey meal.

Pao de Queijo (Cheese Bread Rolls)
Recipe from The Amazing Flavours of Brazil
	Pao de queijo is the ultimate cheese roll.  They are made with tapioca flour starch creates a light dough that allows for the cheese flavor to really shine.  These rolls are extremely popular in Brazil and enjoyed morning, noon and night.

Coxinha de Frango (Chicken Fritters)
Recipe from From Brazil to You
	Coxinha, a traditional salgado, is a favorite among Brazilians.  Seasoned shredded chicken is tucked into a dough (flavored with chicken broth) and deep fried.  This popular appetizer is served anywhere from cafes, to street carts and even birthday parties.

Feijoada (Brazilian Black Bean Stew)
Recipe from Simple Living and Eating
You cannot talk about Brazilian food without discussing their national dish - feijoada.  This thick and meaty black bean stew is packed with tons of flavor from a combination of chorizo, bacon and chuck meat.  This recipe is made even easier because it is prepared in the slow cooker instead of on the stove top.  Serve with orange slices and farofa (toasted tapioca flour).

Brigadeiro (Chocolate Truffles)
Recipe from Tara's Multicultural Table
These delicious chocolate truffles are a melt in your mouth candy.  This recipe requires less than 5 ingredients and can be made within minutes.  Sweetened condensed milk is cooked with cocoa powder and butter until it becomes thick and coats the back of a spoon.  Once cooled, the chocolate mixture is rolled into balls and covered in sprinkles, granulated sugar or chopped nuts.