Brazilian cured sausage, also known as linguiça, is a popular and delicious type of sausage that originated in Portugal and has become a staple in Brazilian cuisine. This flavorful sausage can be enjoyed on its own, used in various dishes, or even grilled for a mouth-watering barbecue experience. In this article, we will guide you through a professional and well-organized introduction to the world of Brazilian cured sausage, including a traditional recipe that you can easily make at home.
Feijoada is a classic Brazilian dish that is often referred to as the country's national dish. It is a hearty and flavorful black bean stew that is traditionally made with various types of cured meats, including sausage, bacon, and pork ribs.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and smoky taste. Feijoada is typically served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices, making for a delicious and well-balanced meal.
If you're looking to add a unique twist to your feijoada, try using beer as a cooking liquid instead of water or broth. The beer adds a depth of flavor and complements the smokiness of the cured meats.
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Glutinous Fried Rice With Cured Meat
Main Ingredients: Glutinous Rice, Dried Shitake Mushroom, Dried Shrimp
Fried rice is a staple dish in many Asian cuisines, and there are countless variations of it. One tasty version is glutinous fried rice with cured meat. Glutinous rice, also known as sticky rice, has a chewy texture and is perfect for absorbing the flavors of the cured meats.
This dish is typically made with Chinese sausage, lap cheong, and cured pork belly, but you can use any cured meats you have on hand. The combination of salty and sweet flavors from the cured meats makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
For an added kick of flavor, try using a dark beer in your fried rice instead of soy sauce. The beer will add a depth of flavor and give the dish a rich and caramelized color.
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Dry Cured Italian Sausage with Marshmallow Cream Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Marshmallow Cream, Italian Sausage
Italian sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. One unique way to enjoy it is by pairing it with a sweet and savory marshmallow cream sauce. The dry-cured sausage adds a salty and spicy kick to the dish, while the marshmallow cream sauce balances it out with its sweetness.
This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy winter dinner. The combination of flavors is unexpected but surprisingly delicious.
For an extra indulgent twist, try using a chocolate stout beer in your marshmallow cream sauce. The dark and rich flavors of the beer will pair perfectly with the sausage and add a unique twist to the dish.
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Dry Cured and Fresh Varieties
Main Ingredients: Pork, Pork Fat, Pimenton, Garlic, Salt, Curing Salt
Cured meats come in both dry-cured and fresh varieties, and each has its own unique flavor and texture. Dry-cured meats, such as salami and prosciutto, are preserved with salt and spices and have a concentrated and intense flavor. Fresh cured meats, like sausages, are typically cooked before consuming and have a milder flavor.
When choosing which cured meats to use in your dishes, consider the flavors and textures of both dry-cured and fresh varieties. Mixing and matching can create a well-balanced and flavorful dish.
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Filipino Pork Longanisa Cured Sausages
Main Ingredients: Longanisa, Water, Vegetable Oil, Garlic, Cooked White
Longanisa is a popular Filipino sausage that is traditionally made with ground pork, garlic, and various spices. It is often served for breakfast with garlic fried rice and eggs, but it can also be enjoyed as a filling for sandwiches or as a topping for pizza.
The sweet and savory flavors of longanisa make it a crowd-pleaser, and it is easy to make at home with just a few ingredients. You can also find pre-made longanisa sausages at many Filipino or Asian grocery stores.
For a unique and flavorful twist, try cooking your longanisa in a dark beer instead of oil. The beer will caramelize and enhance the sweetness of the sausage, making for a tasty and unique dish.
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The Charcuterie and Cheese Board
Main Ingredients: Firm Cheese, Soft Cheese, Prosciutto, Sliced Salami
No list of cured meat recipes would be complete without mentioning the classic charcuterie and cheese board. This appetizer is a favorite at parties and gatherings and is easy to put together with a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments like crackers, fruit, and nuts.
The key to creating a perfect charcuterie and cheese board is to have a variety of flavors and textures. Mix and match different types of cured meats, such as prosciutto, salami, and chorizo, with a variety of cheeses, like brie, gouda, and blue cheese.
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Shrimp and Chorizo Paella
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Bomba Rice, Chicken Stock, Onion, Garlic
Paella is a traditional Spanish dish that is typically made with rice, seafood, and various meats. One delicious variation is shrimp and chorizo paella, which combines the smoky and spicy flavors of chorizo with the sweetness of shrimp and the savory flavors of rice and vegetables.
For an extra depth of flavor, try using a lager or pilsner beer in your paella instead of water or broth. The beer will add a subtle hoppy taste and enhance the flavors of the dish.
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Slow Cooker Brazilian Feijoada
Main Ingredients: Sausage, Slab Bacon, Cured Chorizo, Garlic Cloves
If you're looking for a low-maintenance and delicious dinner, try making slow cooker Brazilian feijoada. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, as it requires minimal prep and cooks all day in the slow cooker.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and makes for a rich and hearty meal. Serve with rice, collard greens, and orange slices for a traditional Brazilian feast.
For an extra burst of flavor, try using a dark beer in your slow cooker feijoada. The beer will add a depth of flavor and complement the smokiness of the cured meats.
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Chorizo in Red Wine
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Garlic, Rosemary Sprigs, Cured Chorizo, Red
Chorizo in red wine is a classic Spanish dish that is perfect for entertaining or a cozy dinner at home. The tanginess of the red wine pairs perfectly with the spicy and smoky flavors of the chorizo, creating a delicious and hearty dish.
This dish is typically served as an appetizer or tapas with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
For a twist on the traditional recipe, try using a Belgian ale in your chorizo in red wine. The beer will add a slight sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
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Cuban Picadillo
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Cured Chorizo, Garlic, Ground
Picadillo is a popular dish in many Latin American countries, including Cuba. It is a flavorful and hearty dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, and various spices and seasonings. It is typically served over rice and can also be used as a filling for empanadas or tacos.
To add an extra kick of flavor to your picadillo, try using a Mexican lager or pilsner beer in the recipe. The beer will add a subtle hoppy taste and enhance the flavors of the dish.
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Brazilian Rice and Beans with Sausage
Main Ingredients: Oil, Smoked Sausage, Green Onion, Garlic, Rice, Chicken
Rice and beans is a staple dish in many Latin American countries, and each region has its own unique twist on the classic recipe. In Brazil, rice and beans are often served with sausage for added flavor and protein.
For a unique and flavorful twist on this dish, try using a dark beer in your rice and beans instead of water or broth. The beer will add a depth of flavor and complement the spices and sausage.
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Everything Bagel Breakfast Casserole
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sausage, Dijon Style Mustard
Who says cured meats are only for dinner? This everything bagel breakfast casserole combines the salty and savory flavors of cured meats, like bacon and prosciutto, with eggs, cheese, and everything bagel seasoning for a delicious and filling breakfast.
The best part? You can make this casserole ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
For an extra burst of flavor, try using a pale ale or wheat beer in your breakfast casserole. The beer will add a subtle hoppy taste and complement the savory flavors of the cured meats.
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Paella
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cured Chorizo, Yellow Onion
No list of cured meat recipes would be complete without including the traditional Spanish dish, paella. This flavorful and colorful dish is typically made with rice, saffron, and various meats and seafood, such as chorizo, chicken, and shrimp.
Paella is a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for entertaining or a special dinner at home.
For a unique twist on this classic dish, try using a Belgian ale in your paella instead of water or broth. The beer will add a depth of flavor and enhance the flavors of the meats and seafood.
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Spanish-Style Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chorizo Sausage, Onion, Sweet Red Pepper
Eggs are a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in many different ways. One delicious and easy option is Spanish-style eggs, which are simply eggs cooked in a flavorful tomato and chorizo sauce.
This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying breakfast or brunch and can be made in just one pan.
For an added depth of flavor, try using a dark beer in your Spanish-style eggs instead of water or broth. The beer will add a subtle hoppy taste and complement the spicy and smoky flavors of the chorizo.
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Brazilian Beans and Rice with Sausage
Main Ingredients: Oil, Smoked Sausage, Green Onion, Garlic, Rice, Chicken
Beans and rice is a popular dish in many cultures, and in Brazil, it is often served with sausage for added flavor and protein. This dish is simple, yet flavorful, and can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side dish to accompany other Brazilian favorites.
To add an extra punch of flavor to your beans and rice, try using a dark beer in the recipe instead of water or broth. The beer will add a depth of flavor and complement the spices and sausage.
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Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza
Main Ingredients: Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, Grated Parmesan Cheese
Cured meats are not just for traditional dishes. They can also be used to create unique and delicious pizzas, like the Chicago-style deep dish pizza. This pizza is loaded with toppings, including pepperoni, sausage, and bacon, and has a thick and buttery crust.
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of beer to your pizza dough. The beer will add a subtle hoppy taste and enhance the overall flavor of the pizza.
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Cuban Quesadillas
Main Ingredients: Honey, Ham, Genoa Salami, Pork, Dill Pickles, Swiss
Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that can be customized with a variety of fillings. One tasty option is Cuban quesadillas, which are filled with ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. The combination of flavors is unexpected but surprisingly delicious.
For an added kick of flavor, try using a wheat beer in your quesadilla batter. The beer will add a subtle depth of flavor and complement the tanginess of the pickles.
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The Perfect Charcuterie Board
Main Ingredients: Bell Peppers, Sweet Onion, Garlic, Hot Peppers, Fresh
Creating the perfect charcuterie board is all about balance and variety. Mix and match different types of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments to create a well-rounded and delicious spread.
For an extra depth of flavor, try using a variety of beers to pair with your charcuterie board. Different types of beer can complement and enhance the flavors of the cured meats and cheeses.
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Vietnamese Savory Sticky Rice (Xôi Mặn)
Main Ingredients: Sticky Rice, Water, Oil, Green Onions, Pate, Vegan
Xôi mặn is a traditional Vietnamese dish that is made with sticky rice, marinated pork, and various toppings like fried shallots and scallions. This dish is often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack and is a popular street food in Vietnam.
For a unique twist on this dish, try using a light lager or pilsner beer in your marinade for the pork. The beer will add a subtle hoppy taste and help tenderize the meat.
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Vegan Korean Sausage Bread
Main Ingredients: Soy Milk, Maple Syrup, Puff Pastry, Sausages, White
Sausage bread is a popular snack in many cultures, and this vegan Korean version is a delicious and creative take on the classic. The bread is filled with a mixture of vegan sausage, vegetables, and spices, and can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal.
For an added layer of flavor, try using a dark beer in your vegan sausage bread dough. The beer will add a depth of flavor and help the bread rise and become fluffy.
The History of Brazilian Cured Sausage
The Origins of Linguiça
Linguiça was originally created in Portugal, where it was made with pork, garlic, and wine. When Portuguese settlers arrived in Brazil, they brought this sausage with them and it quickly became a popular dish among the locals. Over time, the recipe evolved to include additional spices and ingredients, such as cumin, oregano, and paprika, which gave it a unique Brazilian twist.
The Influence of Indigenous Cultures
The indigenous people of Brazil also had an impact on the development of linguiça. They introduced new ingredients, such as manioc flour and cassava, which were used to bind the sausage and give it a smoother texture. They also taught the Portuguese settlers various smoking and curing techniques, which helped preserve the sausage and give it a longer shelf life.
The Traditional Brazilian Cured Sausage Recipe
Now that you know a bit about the history of linguiça, it's time to learn how to make it yourself. Here is a simple and authentic recipe that will give you a taste of Brazil in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
2 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into cubes
1 pound of pork fat, cut into cubes
1 tablespoon of salt
1 tablespoon of black pepper
1 tablespoon of paprika
1 tablespoon of cumin
1 tablespoon of dried oregano
3 cloves of garlic, minced
⅓ cup of red wine vinegar
1 cup of manioc flour
Casing for sausages
Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix together the pork shoulder, pork fat, salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, dried oregano, and minced garlic.
Add the red wine vinegar and mix well until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Once marinated, add the manioc flour to the mixture and mix well, until the mixture becomes sticky and holds together.
Prepare the casing by rinsing it in cold water and then soaking it in water for about 30 minutes.
Push the mixture into the casing, making sure there are no air pockets.
Tie the ends of the casing and then twist it every 6 inches to create individual sausages.
Hang the sausages in a cool, dry place for 2-3 hours to dry.
After drying, the sausages can be grilled, smoked, or cooked in a skillet until fully cooked and browned.
And there you have it, a traditional Brazilian cured sausage that you can proudly serve to your family and friends. Enjoy it on its own or use it in various dishes such as feijoada, a traditional Brazilian stew.
In conclusion, Brazilian cured sausage, or linguiça, is a delicious and versatile sausage that has a rich history and cultural significance. With this recipe, you can easily bring a taste of Brazil into your own home and impress your loved ones with your cooking skills. So why not give it a try and experience the flavors of Brazil in your next meal?