Grilled Rack of Lamb

Posted on March 11, 2024March 11, 2024 by John Reynolds

Easter is celebrated with various customs and traditions around the world. A rich meal is often the focal point, especially after weeks of fasting during Lent. One of the most ubiquitous items on the Easter dinner table is lamb. This tradition has deep historical and cultural roots, making it a significant part of the holiday festivities for many families. Today, we will teach you how to make a grilled rack of lamb for a simple yet decadent holiday centerpiece.

Why is Lamb Eaten at Easter?

In the Christian faith, Jesus is twice referred to as the “Lamb of God” in the Gospel of John. Eating lamb at Easter is meant to commemorate the sacrifice of Jesus and to celebrate his resurrection.

Lamb is also an important symbol in Judaism. The Paschal Lamb was the animal sacrificed in the first Passover on the eve of the Exodus. Its blood was painted over the doorways of the homes of Jewish slaves so they would be spared the Tenth Plague of Egypt: the death of the firstborn sons. For this reason, lamb is also often eaten at Jewish Passover dinner.

In addition, Easter and Passover often coincide with the Vernal Equinox, which was an important date for pre-Christians. Disablot, for example, was a Scandinavian tradition dating from prehistoric times. A blood sacrifice was made in honor of the disir, female spirits associated with a bountiful harvest. The festival also honored the Valkyries, winged female deities who guided the souls of the dead to Odin. Although few accounts exist of exactly what was sacrificed, it is reasonable to assume that Spring lambs were on the docket.

Grilled Rack of Lamb Variations

In addition to a grilled rack of lamb, there are plenty of other preparations that appear in various cuisines around the world. In Greece, for example, magiritsa uses the offal, or innards of the lamb, to make a hearty stew with wild greens and a zesty lemon sauce. The Greeks are also famous for their souvla: a whole lamb spit-roasted over hot coals.

The Finns have a recipe for Finskt lamm, which involves roasting a leg of lamb then covering it with a sweet, red currant glaze. It is usually served with roasted potatoes and other vegetables.

In Italy, a special preparation of lamb called “abbacchio” is actually regulated by the European Union with the Protected Geographical Indication mark. The term refers to the type of lamb used as opposed to a distinct recipe. An abbacchio is simply a suckling lamb that is between 28 and 40 days old and weighs around 15 lbs. It can be grilled, roasted, stewed, or braised, so long as it fits the age and weight requirements.

Suffice to say, you’re not limited to grilled rack of lamb when it comes to Easter. However, the simplicity of this recipe makes it a top contender, in our opinion.

Helpful Hints for Perfect Grilled Lamb

Grilled rack of lamb is pretty fool-proof, but there are a few things you will want to keep in mind to get the best flavor and texture:

Don’t skip the marinade: the marinade is important in flavoring the meat, but it is also essential for tenderizing it.
Use the right heat: sear the outside quickly with high heat, then cook the inside of the meat slowly over indirect heat.
Don’t overcook the lamb: lamb is best served medium rare (130 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit.) You can get away with medium, but don’t go any higher than this, or you’ll get a pretty tough texture.
Cover exposed bones with foil: most racks of lamb come “frenched,” with the rib bones trimmed for elegance and convenience, should you wish to eat yours cave-man style. These bones can burn, so you will want to cover them with aluminum foil before grilling.

Side Dishes for Grilled Rack of Lamb

The right side dishes are nearly as important as the lamb itself. Lamb has a generally mild flavor that is compatible with a wide variety of sides. Instead of the usual roast potatoes or green beans, why not try a few of the following:

Caramelized Leeks with Balsamic Reduction
Steakhouse Crispy Brussels Sprouts (Couve de Bruxelas)
Bahian Forbidden Rice for a bit of surf-and-turf
Steakhouse Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Brazilian Cheese Bread (Pao de Queijo)

Grilled Rack of Lamb Recipe

This dish is not only elegant and flavorful but also surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for both intimate family gatherings and festive feasts.

Ingredients for Grilled Rack of Lamb:

2 racks of lamb, frenched (about 1 ½ pounds each)
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
1/2 cup olive oil
Juice of two lemons (about 2 oz)
2 tsp of salt (more to taste)
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

Prepare the Marinade for the Grilled Rack of Lamb

In a medium bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, chopped herbs, brown sugar, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
Place your lamb in a resealable freezer bag or a shallow dish you can cover. Pour the marinade over the meat and make sure it is completely coated.
Leave the meat to marinate in the fridge for at least six hours, preferably overnight.

Get Ready to Grill

Remove the rack of lamb from the fridge and let it come to room temperature (about 20 minutes). Cover the exposed bones with tin foil.
While the meat rests, preheat your grill: set it on “high” on one side only. For coal grills, mound the charcoal off to one side to contain the heat there as much as possible.

Grill the Lamb

Start by searing the rack of lamb with the fat side down. (This is the more rounded, meaty part, while the back is more bony.) Grill for about four minutes, or until you can see grill marks. Then, flip the meat and sear for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
Transfer the rack of lamb to the cooler side of the grill. Cook on indirect heat until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit (15-20 minutes).

Rest the Grilled Rack of Lamb

Wrap the lamb in foil and allow it to rest for fifteen minutes. Then, slice along the bones to make individual portions and serve. Or, carve it tableside for added flair.

Where to Buy Rack of Lamb

You can buy a rack of lamb in most grocery stores these days, but the quality is not guaranteed. The flavor and texture of lamb is highly dependent on the age of the animal and where it was raised. For a special holiday meal, you will want only the finest meat for your guests.

For our money, you can’t go wrong with Australian lamb. Aussie lamb is free range and grazed exclusively on the country’s wide-ranging grasslands. The taste is naturally mild, lean, and clean with an unsurpassed tenderness.

Luckily, you can order Australian lamb for your Easter Dinner to be delivered right to your door via our online Butcher Shop. Be sure to check out our current coupons for deals on butcher box orders, including freebies like Brazilian sausage.

Feliz Pascoa: Easter in Brazil

Posted on February 22, 2024February 22, 2024 by John Reynolds

Brazil remains a predominantly Catholic nation, with nearly 70 percent of the population identifying as such. This means Easter, or “Pascoa,” is a big deal. With Carnival drawing to an end, Brazilians turn their attention to the more solemn-yet-still-joyful traditions of Easter. While Brazil celebrates in much the same way as the US, with chocolate eggs (called “ovo de pascoa”) and Easter Mass, there are a few rituals that are a nod to the country’s unique history and blend of cultures.

Pascoa in Brazil

The Ovo de Páscoa

In Brazil, Easter eggs hold a special place in the hearts of both children and adults. Unlike American eggs, which are often small and plastic or hard boiled, a Brazilian ovo de pascoa is chocolate and LARGE–about the size of a pineapple. Some are filled with more chocolate, but most are hollow and contain small toys or wrapped candies.

The ovos de Pascoa are sold wrapped in foil that is twisted and fluted at the top. You can find them lining the aisles of supermarkets or, more often, suspended from the ceiling like helium balloons. They arrive in shops well before Easter Sunday and can set you back a pretty penny (as much as $30 per egg!).

Good Friday Dinner

The Friday before Pascoa holds a significant place in the Christian calendar, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Brazil, it is customary for families to gather for a special dinner on Good Friday, often featuring fish dishes. This tradition reflects the Catholic practice of abstaining from meat on Fridays during Lent, the period of fasting and penance leading up to Easter.

Bacalhau is a kind of salt cod that features in a variety of recipes, and will typically be found in some form for dinner on Good Friday. Bacalhau com natas is a favorite, as are fried fish balls called bolinhos de bacalhau.

Minas Gerais Páscoa Flower Carpet

In the state of Minas Gerais and other regions, Easter is celebrated with a unique tradition known as the flower carpet, or tapete de flores. This involves creating elaborate designs using flower petals and colored sand. In some areas, children dressed in white sing hymns while the carpet is being made.

Blooms for Palm Sunday

A species of flower called the macela, is a beautiful, tropical bloom that flowers only around Easter. For this reason, it is often brought to mass on Palm Sunday, the Sunday before Pascoa. The auspicious flowers are also used for a variety of medicinal purposes, from indigestion-curing teas to crushed petals stuffed in pillow cases to promote sleep.

Painting of Cats and Dogs in Ivoti

In the town of Ivoti, there is a rumor that takes on a whimsical tone with the tradition of painting cats and dogs. According to local lore, this playful custom originated centuries ago when villagers would paint animals to let the children know that Easter was on its way.

Easter Dinner Made Simple

Wondering what to serve for Easter dinner? We can help! You can either enjoy a delicious meal tableside at one of our 50+ locations, or order a beautiful dinner to go. Or, purchase one of our hand-curated butcher boxes to have premium cuts of meat, like Australian rack of lamb, delivered right to your door.

Valentine’s Day in Brazil

Posted on January 15, 2024 by John Reynolds

In the US, Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14. Many of us are already researching and booking fancy restaurants to ensure the perfect romantic evening. But in Brazil, Valentine’s Day is observed in June. Brazilians have similar customs to honor a sweetheart, such as flowers and chocolates, along with a few unique traditions. Let’s take a closer look at how Brazil celebrates this holiday and a few ideas for the upcoming American version.

Why Brazilian Valentine’s Day is in June

Valentine’s Day in Brazil takes place on June 12 for two reasons: 1) to honor Saint Anthony, a Catholic saint associated with matchmaking and prosperous marriage; and 2) because February is a time to prepare for the country’s largest and most famous celebration: Carnaval.

In all actuality, it was one rather brilliant publicist who declared Brazilian Valentine’s Day to be on June 12. Joao Doria was hired by a clothing store in the late 1940s to come up with a strategy to boost sales.

Inspired by enthusiasm and commercialism surrounding Brazilian Mother’s Day, Doria decided to try his hand at creating a new holiday. He chose the eve of St. Anthony’s death, likely to be more palatable to the Catholic majority, while providing Brazilians a day to celebrate love. It also conveniently aligns with the Festas Juninas, which also honor John the Baptist.

The tactic worked quite well, and Brazilians have been celebrating their version of Valentine’s Day on June 12 ever since. Interestingly, a similar tactic was employed some years later in the establishment of Brazilian Father’s Day, an idea allegedly developed to boost a local newspaper’s sales.

How is Valentine’s Day in Brazil Celebrated?

Valentine’s Day in Brazil is known as “Dia dos Namorados,” which means “Lovers Day.” It is celebrated in much the same way it is in the US: couples exchange tokens and enjoy a fine meal out or at home. Of course, Brazil adds its own spin with a few distinct traditions.

Simpatias for Brazilian Valentine’s Day

Singles in Brazil may also perform a little ritual to attract a sweetheart. These rituals are called simpatias, or “sympathies.” For example, a person looking for love might add a pinch of salt to a rose in water, then use the water to bathe two days later. Another common simpatia is to stash a love note in a pot of basil and give the plant to the person you wish to attract.

There are over a hundred simpatias, but the most important element in each involves asking St. Anthony to bless you with a prosperous marriage or, at least, a beautiful romance. Some even put a little extra pressure on the saint by putting his picture upside down in a glass of water or cachaca until he sends the right person along!

Singles Events

Being single on Valentine’s Day in Brazil can actually be a blast! Many bars and restaurants hold singles events with games, music, drinks, and more to pass the time with friends or maybe even find a new significant other.

Festivals and Parades for Valentine’s Day in Brazil

In certain parts of Brazil, the streets are adorned with romantic decorations in preparation for parades or dedicated festivals. Food, music, and folk dancing (especially samba) are very popular.

Valentine’s Day Ideas for 2024

If you’re feeling the pressure for Valentine’s Day this year, you’re not alone. Many people report feeling stressed, wanting to find the perfect gift or create an unforgettable experience. Luckily, Texas de Brazil is a one-stop shop for a truly memorable Valentine’s Day:

Texas de Brazil is a Top Date Night Restaurant

With its delicious food, unparalleled service, and vibrant atmosphere, Texas de Brazil is the perfect date night spot any time of the year, including Valentine’s Day. A perfect balance of upscale dining balanced by a warm, unpretentious vibe, a romantic evening is all but guaranteed.

Texas de Brazil Offers Take Out

If you and your sweetheart prefer a cozy night in, you can still enjoy a delicious churrasco meal. Texas de Brazil offers takeout meals with all of your favorite meats and side dishes cooked to perfection. All you have to do is set a beautiful table and serve.

Texas de Brazil Delivers

If you want to wow your date with your culinary skills, why not order one of our butcher boxes? Rack of lamb, spicy picanha, choice cut steaks…you really can’t go wrong with our a la carte and package options. They’re delivered right to your door–no shopping necessary.

Valentine’s Gift Ideas

Texas de Brazil even has the gift-giving aspect of Valentine’s Day covered. Our online shop has a variety of unique gifts for your person, including:

Aprons and oven mitts for the home cook or grill master
Premium golf balls and markers for the golfing enthusiast
A gorgeous bottle of extra virgin olive oil, made from 100% pressed Cacarena olives
A stainless steel 20 oz tumbler that keeps drinks hot or cold for hours
Gift cards in all increments for the carnivore in your life

Reserve Your Table Today

Tables fill up fast at Texas de Brazil, especially for holidays like Valentine’s Day. We recommend reserving your spot at least a couple weeks in advance, if not sooner! That being said, we are here to help you make your evening as successful as possible. If you have any questions, concerns, or details you’d like to include, give your server a head’s up or include special instructions in your reservation notes. We will do our utmost to accommodate you. Feliz Dia dos Namorados!

Bolo Rei

Posted on January 8, 2024 by John Reynolds

Brazilian Kings Cake

The Kings Cake is a traditional dessert associated with Epiphany, also known as Three Kings Day. This is a Catholic observance to commemorate the biblical visitation of Jesus by the Three Wise Men. There are variations around the world, including Brazil, where it is known as bolo rei. It is a simple yet impressive looking cake, with decorations added specifically for their symbolism.

Bolo Rei History

Although the Catholic Church declared Epiphany a holy day in around 325 AD, the first King Cake is thought to have originated in France much later in the 13th or 14th century. Today, there are two primary versions of French bolo rei: the first is an almond frangipane wrapped in crisp puff pastry; the second, which is more popular in Southern France, is an orange-flavored brioche studded with candied fruits.

The bolo rei has since made its way to a large part of the Western Christian world, and it is not limited to Epiphany. In New Orleans, for example, it is heavily associated with Mardi Gras and appears on tables throughout the month of January and up to the day before Lent (Ash Wednesday).

What to Hide in Bolo Rei?

One of the traditions associated with the king cake is a hidden trinket. In most cases, it is a fava bean and/or a small toy. The person who has the slice with the bean must host the celebration the following year. The small toy is for one of the younger guests, who is then crowned “king” for the day.

In the past, the bean and toy were baked into the bolo rei. Today, it is best practice to insert them after the cake is baked to avoid surprise melting or unpleasant tastes. Just frost over the spot where you put them or cover them with the dried fruit.

What is in Bolo Rei?

Bolo rei is more similar to the southern French version. You leaven the cake with yeast and decorate it with candied fruits that are soaked in copious amounts of port wine. Traditional fruits include candied red and green cherries, pineapple rings, and orange peels. Mixed nuts are also added for crunch. The toppings are meant to represent the gifts brought by the Magi to the infant Jesus: the golden crust is for gold, the candied fruit for the sticky myrrh resin, and the spicy aroma to mimic the scent of frankincense.

Do You Have to Use Fruit in Bolo Rei?

Fruit is not everyone’s cup of tea, especially the dried and candied variety. You can omit the fruit entirely or exchange it for orange extract or cognac to get that citrusy flavor. There are also variations that use chocolate in place of the nuts (yum) and dust the topping with shaved chocolate and powdered sugar. Really, you can customize it however you like. Just don’t forget the fava bean and a little toy.

Bolo Roi Recipe

Ingredients:

3 cups all purpose flour
2 tbsp active dry yeast
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2.5 oz butter, softened
3 eggs
½ tsp salt
Zest from one orange
4 oz warm milk
4 oz port wine or brandy
¼ cup mixed candied fruits, chopped ( cherries, apricots, and citrus are good)
1 oz mixed nuts, chopped into small pieces
Whole pieces of dried fruit for the top
Whole nuts, like almonds, walnuts, and pecans, to decorate the top
Confectioner’s sugar

Directions: How to Make Bolo Rei

1: Activate the yeast

Heat the milk until lukewarm and dissolve a teaspoon of sugar in it.
Add the yeast to the milk-sugar mixture, stir gently, and set it aside for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2: Prepare the filling and topping

Soak the chopped candied fruit in a bowl with the port or brandy while you wait for the dough to rise. After 30 minutes, strain the infused fruit and mix in the chopped nuts.

3: Prepare the dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and orange zest.
Add the activated yeast mixture, 2 eggs, softened butter, and fruit-and-nut mixture to the dry ingredients.
Knead the mixture until it forms a smooth and elastic dough. Cover the bowl with a cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

4: Assemble the Bolo Rei

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a ring, leaving a hole in the center.
Place the dough ring on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the surface of the dough with 1 tbsp water mixed with the remaining egg. Arrange the whole candied fruits and nuts mixture on top, pressing them gently into the dough.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the cake is golden brown.

5: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the Bolo Rei from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Before serving, dust the cake with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Alternatively, you can mix a couple tablespoons of strawberry jam with a little water to make a syrup to provide both sweetness and shine.

More Great Brazilian Recipes to Try

New Year’s Eve in Brazil

Posted on December 26, 2023December 27, 2023 by John Reynolds

As the clock ticks down to midnight on December 31st, people around the world eagerly anticipate the arrival of the New Year, each culture bringing its unique traditions and customs to the festivities. In Brazil, New Year’s Eve is a vibrant and lively celebration, marked by a fusion of cultural influences that make it truly one-of-a-kind. Let’s take a look at some of the quintessential traditions of New Year’s Eve in Brazil. Maybe you’ll adopt one or two for your own celebration!

How Brazilians Ring in the New Year

New Year’s is called Reveillon in Brazil. The word comes from the word “reveiller” in French, which means “to waken.” It describes a feast held until morning.

There are a few key traditions associated with New Year’s Eve in Brazil, all designed to encourage prosperity and peace over the next 365 days:

Wearing White

Many of the New Year’s Eve traditions in Brazil are derived from the Afro-Brazilian religions of Candomble and Umbanda. Candomble incorporates aspects of many of the religions of West Africa, which is where a majority of Brazilian slaves came from. Meanwhile, Umbanda is a medley of Afro-Brazilian and certain Roman Catholic traditions.

One of the Afro-Brazilian traditions adopted for New Year’s is dressing in white from head to toe. In Candomble and Umbanda, the color white symbolizes purity, peace, and renewal. Remember that Brazilians do not merely say “Happy New Year” on New Year’s Eve. They say, “New Year, New Life.” Wearing white symbolizes this expression.

Offerings to Yemanjá

Along the coast, particularly in Rio de Janeiro and Bahia, worshippers and revelers alike participate in the traditional offering of white flowers, soaps, necklaces, hair combs, and other small trinkets to Yemanja. Yemanja, also spelled Lemanja, is the Candomble and Umbanda goddess of the sea. The items are placed in small boats and gently pushed out to sea. In return for their offerings, Brazilians request protection and good luck for the year.

Feasting on Lentils and Pomegranates

New Year’s Eve in Brazil also involves the consumption of pomegranates and lentils. The way you eat the pomegranate is important: you eat the flesh but save the seeds. You then wrap seven of the seeds in paper and put them in your wallet to attract wealth. (Don’t worry, they don’t have to stay there all year–just until January 6.)

Meanwhile, lentils are a popular meal at family gatherings for New Year’s Eve in Brazil. Lentilha da sorte, a stew of lentils, veggies, and pork sausage, is a particular favorite. Like the pomegranate, there are rules for making the most out of your lentils at New Year’s: stand on a chair, table, or other high place and take seven even bites of lentils to attract luck and prosperity in the coming year.

Fireworks and Street Parties

New Year’s Eve in Brazil is renowned for its spectacular fireworks displays and lively street parties. Major cities like Rio de Janeiro host enormous gatherings, with music, dancing, and a contagious energy that fills the air. The iconic Copacabana Beach in Rio is a focal point for millions of revelers, as they gather to witness breathtaking fireworks and take part in the largest New Year’s Eve party in the world.

Jumping Over Seven Waves

Another tradition for New Year’s Eve in Brazil involves jumping over seven waves at midnight, making wishes with each leap. Even non-coastal citizens travel hours to the sea so they can complete this ritual. The number seven holds special significance in Afro Brazilian culture. In this case, successfully leaping over seven successive waves means you will overcome obstacles in the New Year.

Wearing Colorful Undergarments

While many Brazilians choose to wear white clothing on the outside, under the clothing is a different story. Most are wearing brightly colored undergarments, the color carefully selected to represent individual desires. Yellow, for example, symbolizes money and success; red can ignite passion and love, and orange may stimulate creativity.

Bay Leaves for Wealth

If pomegranate seeds aren’t your thing, you can also put a bay leaf in your wallet with some cash. Unlike the seeds, however, you must leave the bay leaf in the wallet for the whole year, then donate the money to charity on December 31. The bay leaf must then be discarded in a running water source, like a stream or the ocean.

Easy New Year’s Eve Dinner

Brazilian New Year’s Eve celebrations are a captivating blend of cultural diversity, spirituality, and exuberance. The customs and traditions reflect the nation’s rich history and the resilience of its people. Among other traditions, good food is a part of any Brazilian celebration.

Make it easy on yourself this year and pre-order Texas de Brazil’s Beef Ribs Holiday Feast for your New Year’s Eve Celebration. This ready-to-eat kit feeds up to eight people. Tender, fall-of-the-bone ribs are accompanied with your choice of two sides, like our garlic mashed potatoes or feijoada black beans with crispy farofa topping. You’ll also receive a dozen Brazilian cheese bread rolls and a side of chimichurri for the ribs. Make sure you get your order in today before we sell out!

Spiked Eggnog (Licor de Ovos)

Posted on December 12, 2023January 29, 2024 by John Reynolds

Ah, eggnog: you either love it or you hate it. It is sweet, spiced, creamy, and, well, eggy. For many, the holiday season isn’t complete without a chilled glass of this unusual concoction. We certainly don’t mind a sip or two, especially when spiked with aged cachaca. Keep reading for a little eggnog trivia and our spiked eggnog recipe (or just jump to the recipe, you won’t hurt our feelings).

Where Does Eggnog Come From?

Most historians agree that the roots of eggnog can be traced back to medieval Britain, where a beverage known as “posset” was popular. Posset was made with milk curdled with wine or beer and often flavored with spices. It was meant to be drunk hot and often used as a treatment for cold and flu.

Eggs and egg yolks were incorporated into posset by at least the 13th century. Monks were known to consume a version that included both eggs, wine, and figs. The wealthy elite adopted this custom and added a bit of sherry, which was more expensive at the time. Posset soon became a symbol of good health and prosperity.

Posset was not called “eggnog” until the 17th century, when the drink made its way to the American Colonies. Sherry and wine were exchanged for rum, which was plentiful and cheap. Heaps of sugar were also added to the already-rich drink. George Washington himself had a recipe for eggnog that called for “one dozen tablespoons of sugar.” That might explain the unfortunate teeth situation. The first president’s recipe also had rum, rye whiskey, and sherry. Small wonder he forgot to specify how many eggs to use.

Why is Eggnog Called Eggnog?

The egg part is obvious, but where did the “nog” come from in eggnog? We’ll never know for sure, but many historians posit (that’s a pun) that the term comes from “noggin,” a Gaelic word for a wooden cup.

Why Do We Drink Eggnog at Christmas?

From its early iterations as posset to the time it was drunk in the colonies, eggnog ingredients were considered a luxury. It was thought that toasting a beverage with expensive eggs, cream, sugar, alcohol, and spices would usher in prosperity for the new year. Eggnog is also high in calories, which may have been beneficial to those with otherwise meager holiday rations.

Today, eggnog is less about prosperity and more about festivity. We tend to give ourselves a pass at Christmas to indulge a bit, and eggnog fits the bill: it is creamy, decadent, and a little bit naughty with all those calories.

Do Brazilians Drink Eggnog?

Yes! Eggnog is called “licor de ovos” in Brazil and is made in much the same way as American eggnog. The main difference is the liquor. Brazilians, of course, use cachaca in their eggnog in place of rum. Nutmeg is also not typically used in licor de ovo, which is flavored with pure vanilla extract instead.

Licor de ovo is especially popular in Minas Gerais and other southern regions of Brazil, where it can get quite chilly in the Autumn and Winter months. This means it is not necessarily consumed as a holiday beverage, since Brazilian autumn begins in March.

What is In Eggnog?

Eggs: the star ingredient, eggs provide the rich and velvety texture to eggnog. Raw eggs were historically used, but most modern recipes heat the eggs to a safe temperature before chilling.

Dairy: whole milk and heavy cream contribute to the luscious creaminess of eggnog. Some recipes may use a combination of milk and cream to balance the richness.

Sweeteners: sugar is a crucial component to sweeten the eggnog, providing a counterbalance to the richness of the eggs and dairy. Some variations might also include sweetened condensed milk or even maple syrup.

Flavorings: nutmeg is the traditional spice that gives eggnog its distinctive flavor. Other spices like cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves may also be added for complexity.

Spirits: the addition of alcoholic spirits, such as rum, cachaca, brandy, whiskey, or bourbon, is optional but adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile. Non-alcoholic versions are also popular, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this festive beverage.

What Does Eggnog Taste Like?

Eggnog is a harmonious blend of sweet, creamy, and warmly spiced flavors. The texture is velvety and thick, almost syrupy but not sticky. It is not dissimilar to a glass of melted ice cream spiced heavily with nutmeg, which gives it a distinctly peppery flavor.

Homemade Eggnog Recipe (Licor de Ovos)

Ingredients:

6 egg yolks
½ cup white sugar
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy whipping cream
½ tsp freshly ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp ground cardamom
½ tsp pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
4 oz aged cachaca or spiced rum

Directions:

Whisk together the egg yolks, then add the sugar and mix until light and frothy.
Heat the milk, cream, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt in a saucepan over medium high heat.
Temper the egg mixture: when the cream mixture reaches a simmer, add about 2 tablespoons to the egg mixture and stir to combine. Repeat this process until most of the cream mixture has been added to the egg mixture, then return everything to the saucepan.
Whisk constantly over medium high heat for a few more minutes. Check the temperature with a thermometer: it should be 160 degrees fahrenheit or higher.
Remove the mixture from the heat and add your vanilla extract and cachaca.
Chill thoroughly, then serve in glass cups with a cinnamon stick and freshly grated nutmeg.

Spend the Holidays with Us

Texas de Brazil is a unique and delicious fine dining destination during the holidays and all year round. Visit one of our 50+ locations this year to treat your loved ones to a truly special meal. Also, be sure to take advantage of our current Texas de Brazil gift card deals–perfect to add to a stocking or a christmas gift basket.

Honeynut Squash Recipe

Posted on December 4, 2023December 4, 2023 by John Reynolds

Creamy Honeynut Squash Soup (Sopa de abobara)

Honeynut squash are some of the lesser known winter squashes, but we are here to change that! As their name suggests, they are exceptionally sweet, and their skin has a beautiful amber hue. Unsurprisingly, they lend themselves to a number of recipes, savory and sweet. Today’s honeynut squash recipe is for a spicy, creamy soup: perfect for a cold winter evening.

Honeynut Squash vs Butternut Squash

Honeynut squash are actually a hybrid between butternut squash and buttercup squash. They were an experiment by a professor at Cornell University in the 1980s, and cultivars didn’t appear in US markets until 2015.

Honeynut squash have the appearance of mini butternut squash but with a deeper orange color (they have about three times the level of beta carotene). They are also sweeter than either a butternut squash or a buttercup squash, and their thin skin is edible.

The average-sized honeynut squash is about 4 inches long and between 2.5 and 4 inches wide, so you need more of them for a recipe than larger varieties of winter squash.

Buttercup squash (top) plus butternut squash (center) equals honeynut squash (bottom).

Honeynut Squash in Brazilian Recipes

Pumpkin dishes are quite prevalent in Brazil, especially since they can be grown year round. Quibebe, for example, is a savory pumpkin stew that slow-simmers big bites of butternut squash. And Christmas tables in Brazil are often adorned with a beautiful camarao na moranga: a roasted cinderella pumpkin stuffed with a creamy shrimp soup.

Again, honeynut squash are not particularly well-known. Most Brazilian recipes call for either butternut squash or the moranga (which we know in the US as a Cinderella pumpkin or pink pumpkin) or the abobora, which is butternut squash. While there is no substituting the moranga for your stuffed shrimp recipe, you can easily use the honeynut squash in place of butternut squash in most recipes. You will just need more of them.

Where to Buy Honeynut Squash

There are a few large grocery chains that carry honeynut squash this time of year. You can find them at Costco, Wholefoods, and Trader Joes. They are also often found at farmer’s markets, but it’s a little late in the year for those.

You could also try growing your own honeynut squash from seeds! The process is much the same as any other winter squash: plant them indoors in March, then harden them off outdoors after the last frost. Transplant seedlings to soil in May. You can also directly sow the seeds in May and June as well.

How to Cook Honeynut Squash

Like other winter squash, honeynut squash can be roasted, stewed, boiled, sauteed, and pureed. For this soup recipe, we highly recommend roasting the squash. It is very easy to do and it truly brings out the sweet nuttiness of the squash.

To roast honeynut squash, remove the stems at the top of each gourd. Then cut each squash lengthways in half. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits in the middle with a metal spoon. Put each squash skin-side up on a lined baking tray. Roast them at 425 degrees fahrenheit for around 30 minutes until they are soft and you can see the sugars begin to caramelize. It will smell heavenly and the skins will wrinkle a bit. If you can easily pierce the skins with a fork, you should be good to go.

Let the squash cool and then scoop out the flesh into a bowl for later use. We won’t use the skins in this recipe, but you can certainly eat them if you want.

Honeynut Squash Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

Two cups of roasted honeynut squash (about three squashes), mashed to a pulp
One red bell pepper, diced
Half of one yellow onion, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
3 cups of vegetable stock
1 tsp of salt (more to taste)
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
Extra virgin olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

Heat a saucepan over medium high heat. Add in a drizzle of olive oil, and sautee the bell pepper and yellow onion for two minutes, or until they start to soften.
Add in the garlic and stir for 30 seconds or so, just until you can smell it.
Pour in the vegetable stock and add in the salt, cayenne, cinnamon, and a few twits of freshly ground black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce to medium-low, cover, and simmer for fifteen minutes.
Stir in the honeynut squash mash and let the mixture heat up again to a rolling simmer (5 minutes)
Remove the mixture from the heat and blend with an immersion blender until very smooth. Alternatively, you can pour the mixture into a stand blender, then return it to the pot and heat through once more.

What to Eat with Honeynut Squash Soup

Enjoy your soup piping hot with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a big piece of crusty french bread for dunking. It also makes a great starter for a holiday or anniversary dinner. Follow it with a main dish of churrasco steak and a dessert course of passionfruit mousse and espresso. Perfeito!

Take Advantage of Texas de Brazil’s Gift Card Bonuses

For a limited time, Texas de Brazil is rewarding gift card purchases with bonus cards. For every $100 you spend on gift cards, you will receive a $25 bonus card; and for every $50, you will earn a $10 card. They make an ideal stocking stuffer or Christmas gift basket addition. Visit our online store to learn more.

Spicy Cranberry Sauce

Posted on November 28, 2023 by John Reynolds

A Classic Holiday Side with a Spicy and Boozy Twist

Cranberry sauce is ubiquitous at the American holiday table. It is deliciously sweet and tart, perfect with a bite of tender turkey meat. It is also a festive red color, which helps brighten up a plate full of brown gravy, brown stuffing, and brown rolls. But not all cranberry sauce is created equal. Everyone seems to have their own recipe they claim is the best one. We’ll happily hop on that bandwagon and present you with our recipe for spicy cranberry sauce: sweet, sour, hot, and boozy, this is something a little special.

Brazilian Cranberry Sauce

You may remember from our recent Thanksgiving in Brazil blog that cranberry sauce is not eaten much in Brazil. This isn’t because Brazilians don’t like it, it is simply that cranberries do not grow there. While tinned options may be available online, most holiday dinners in Brazil omit the cranberries or swap it with a chutney or sauce made from jabuticaba, which are also known as Brazilian grapes. They have a similar taste and texture to cranberries, but with a hint of blueberry.

Good luck finding jabuticabas in the US, though. They can be grown in tropical areas like Florida, but they are definitely an exotic item around here. So we will stick with the cranberries but with a decidedly Brazilian twist: cachaca and red pepper. The resulting spicy cranberry sauce is unlike any you’ve tasted.

What Cachaca to Use for Spicy Cranberry Sauce?

You have a couple options when it comes to choosing a cachaca for your spicy cranberry sauce. You could go for a newer, small batch variety, which will have a simpler flavor profile. Young cachaca has a distinctive grassy flavor, courtesy of the fresh sugar cane juice from which it is made. Also known as prata, unaged cachaca is famous as the alcoholic component of a refreshing caipirinha.

Aged cachaca (“envelhecida”), on the other hand, takes on a more complex flavor. It can taste oaky, like the barrels it is stored in, along with the spice and vanilla flavors of the wood. It maintains that signature grassy flavor, but it is often more mellow.

In order to be legally designated as cachaca envelhecida, at least half of the liquor volume must have been aged for one year or more in a wooden barrel with a capacity of no more than 700 liters (around 185 gallons). Strict regulations apply to the unaged cachaca as well.

For this spicy cranberry sauce recipe, we like aged cachaca. Really, though, it is your choice. In a pinch, you can use spiced rum. Just be aware that no Brazilian will agree with you that cachaca and rum are the same thing.

Other Spicy Cranberry Sauce Ingredients

Obviously, you’ll need cranberries! Fresh is best, but frozen will work as well. You will also need some warming spices: cinnamon sticks and one or two whole cloves. They pair beautifully with the aged cachaca, which has a rich herby flavor and spiciness all its own.

We couldn’t call this “spicy cranberry sauce” without the other star ingredient: cayenne. We are using a half teaspoon, but you can add more or less depending on your desired level of spice. It will be complemented by the sweetness of orange juice and sugar, and a kiss of vanilla extract for one final note.

Can You Make Spicy Cranberry Sauce Ahead of Time?

Yes. In fact, it is best if you do make it at least a day ahead so it has time to set. It will keep in the fridge for up to a week before serving. If you wish to make it earlier than that, you can freeze it just as well. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then transfer the sauce to a freezer safe container or gallon bag and freeze until you are ready to use.

Spicy Cranberry Sauce Recipe with Cachaca

Ingredients:

12 oz fresh cranberries (one pack)
1 cup of orange juice (with or without pulp)
1 ¼ cups white sugar
8 oz aged cachaca or spiced rum
1 tsp real vanilla extract
2 cinnamon sticks
2 whole cloves
½ tsp cayenne pepper

Directions:

Add the sugar, cachaca, and orange juice to a saucepan over medium high heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
Reduce the heat to low and add in the cinnamon sticks and cloves. Cover the saucepan and let the spices infuse for 5-10 minutes, then remove them.
Add in your cranberries, vanilla extract, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to medium low.
Simmer the spicy cranberry sauce uncovered until the berries begin to pop. Yes, some of them will actually pop open! Let the mixture continue to simmer until the sauce thickens.
Transfer the sauce to a container and let it cool and set in the refrigerator for at least six hours, preferably overnight.

What to Eat with Spicy Cranberry Sauce

Of course, turkey is delicious with this spicy, boozy cranberry sauce. But we have some other ideas:

Pernil de cerdo: a delicious, slow-roasted pork shoulder
Peri Peri Chicken: roasted whole with smoky, tangy spices
Roast picanha: Brazil’s favorite cut of beef prepared in the oven

Gift Card Specials at Texas de Brazil

Be sure to take advantage of our gift card specials at Texas de Brazil. For a limited time only, receive a $25 gift card for every $100 you purchase, and a bonus $10 gift card for every $50. Perfect for tucking into stockings and Christmas gift baskets, you’ll be sure to please everyone on your list!

Christmas Gift Basket Ideas

Posted on November 20, 2023November 20, 2023 by John Reynolds

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Family, food, gratitude, and gift-giving are traditions we all look forward to. But sometimes, finding the perfect gift can be a little difficult, if not downright anxiety-inducing. We’ve made it easy for you with our list of unique and beautiful Christmas gift basket ideas, all courtesy of Texas de Brazil!

The Best Christmas Gift Basket Ideas for 2023

Artisanal Olive Oil

Tuck a beautiful bottle of Texas de Brazil’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil into your Christmas gift basket this year. Made from 100% Manzanilla Cacerena olives grown in Extremadura, Spain, this fruity and slightly smoky oil is perfect for cooking or dipping with crusty French bread.

Beef Jerky

Beef jerky is a universal crowd pleaser, and Texas de Brazil has two delectable versions: original and spicy. Both pack a smoky, flavorful punch-perfect for elevated snacking.

TDB Original Beef Jerky 3 oz, $6.00

Spice Rub

Adding to our yummy list of Christmas gift basket ideas is our spicy grilling rub. A delicious blend of earthy spices and a good kiss of heat bring any cut of meat to the next level. It is the very same rub we use on our spicy picanha in the restaurant, so you know it’s good.

Crossback Apron

For the dedicated chef or grill master, a beautiful and durable apron is in order. Roll up one of our Texas de Brazil aprons to add to your Christmas gift basket. Crafted by renowned apron makers Hedley & Bennett, the signature crossback style is comfortable and helps the apron stay put for consistent coverage. Even better: it’s machine washable and one size fits all!

Wine Tumbler

As far as Christmas gift basket ideas go, this one is always a crowd pleaser. Our woodgrain pattern stainless steel wine tumbler is not only gorgeous to look at, but keeps your beverage cold for up to sixteen hours and hot for eight! We can think of a few ways to test this, but we might start with a Brazilian mulled wine, followed by a chilled passion fruit caipirinha. Hey, it’s for science!

TDB Wine Tumbler, $21.99

Gaucho Knife

This actually makes for a great gift all on its own, not just as a Christmas gift basket idea. A beautiful carving knife with a 10” stainless steel blade and a genuine leather sheath. Made in Brazil in the authentic facon style, you have your choice of a polished wood handle or a traditional horn style. It is presented in a wooden box for easy wrapping.

TDB Gaucho Knife with wooden handle, $95

Christmas Gift Card

You can’t go wrong with a Texas de Brazil gift card, which can be used at any of our fine dining establishments or for more treats from our online shop. Choose an increment that suits your budget and give the fantastic gift of churrasco this season. To sweeten the deal, we’re giving you a $25 bonus card for every $100 you spend, and a $10 bonus for every $50 you spend on a gift card.

What About a Christmas Box?

If putting together a Christmas basket isn’t your thing, what about having us put together a box for you? A box of meat, that is. In our online butcher shop, you can choose from hand curated collections or choose your own items a la cart to have delivered to a special someone. Or, send a box to yourself and be the star of Christmas dinner with a roast picanha or perfect rack of lamb.

Thanksgiving in Brazil

Posted on November 13, 2023 by John Reynolds

Thanksgiving is not a traditional holiday in Brazil, but the concept of expressing gratitude and celebrating with loved ones is certainly not unfamiliar to Brazilians. While Thanksgiving as it’s celebrated in the United States is not observed officially in Brazil, the country has its own special occasions and regional festivals that revolve around food, family, and thankfulness. Here’s a glimpse of how Brazilians celebrate gratitude and togetherness, along with some of the delicious foods they enjoy.

Brazilian Festivals of Gratitude

Festa Junina

This festival is celebrated in June and is a joyful time to give thanks to St. John the Baptist for the harvest and the rain. People dress up in traditional country attire, dance quadrilha (a Brazilian square dance), and enjoy various typical foods and sweets.

Corn-based dishes are especially prevalent during Festa Junina, since the festivals take place during the country’s second harvest. Popcorn, sweet corn cakes (bolos de fuba), and corn puddings are all popular treats. The drink of choice is, of course, cachaca; but Brazilian mulled wine is also a favorite.

Christmas

Christmas is a big deal in Brazil. Much of the celebration takes place on December 24, when family and friends get together to eat, exchange gifts, and attend midnight mass. The next day is spent relaxing and reflecting on the past year, giving thanks for blessings and togetherness.

Christmas dinner almost always includes rice and beans (feijoada), fresh fruit, and rabanada-Brazilian deep fried french toast. The main dish could be a chester, which is a boneless chicken, or salt cod in cream (bacalhau com natas).or fried into croquettes.

Father’s Day

Brazilian Father’s Day takes place in August. Children make cards at school and older children buy presents like cologne or clothing. Grandfathers and uncles are also celebrated. The family might attend mass together and then celebrate at a restaurant or with churrasco, the famous Brazilian barbecue.

Mother’s Day

Mother’s day is celebrated in May on the same day as in the US. Similarly, cards and flowers are popular gifts and tokens of gratitude. Like father’s day, cookouts are common, especially since the weather is cooling down a bit. Churrasco is common, as are picnics with classics like pasta salad, potato salad, and chicken salad.

Carnival

Carnival is a time for Catholics to indulge one last time before the long period of fasting known as Lent. In Brazil, regional parades are a lavish affair, with floats, elaborate costumes, and samba competitions. The food is an integral part. Ideally, snacks are portable, so you can view the parades while you eat. Some of the most popular carnival treats include:

Brazilian cheese bread: nutty, chewy, cheese-stuffed puffs made with cassava flour
Brigadeiros: chocolate fudge balls made with condensed milk and cocoa, rolled in sprinkles
Acaraje: famously purveyed by the Baianas of Bahia, acaraje are delicious fritters made from beans and aromatics, then stuffed with a mixture of seafood in a vibrant sauce.
Churros: plain or filled with chocolate or dulce de leche, then rolled in cinnamon sugar
Picanha: of course, picanha is always a favorite. A flavorful cut of beef is rolled into a “c shape,” skewered, grilled over an open flame, then sliced onto waiting plates.

Regional Celebrations

Brazil is a diverse country with a variety of regional cultures and traditions. Each region has its own unique way of celebrating and expressing gratitude. For example, in the state of Bahia, people celebrate Lavagem do Bonfim, a religious festival that involves cleaning the steps of the Bonfim Church. In the south, Oktoberfest is a popular celebration with German influences, where people come together to enjoy beer, food, and music.

Dia de Acao de Gracas

While Brazil does not officially celebrate Thanksgiving, many citizens have adopted the American tradition and choose to observe the holiday on the same day as the US. Like other holidays in Brazil, it may involve going to mass or prayers for loved ones. The dinner is very similar, usually with a turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, etc.

One important difference is that there are no cranberries in Brazil! Instead of the traditional American cranberry sauce, Brazilians make a sweet compote with jaboticaba, a berry similar in size and taste to the cranberry.

Thanksgiving at Texas de Brazil

As you can see, the spirit of gratitude, togetherness, and festive food is very much a part of Brazilian culture, and not limited to one day of the year! Brazilians find various occasions to celebrate with loved ones and enjoy their rich culinary traditions as often as they can.

We hope you are celebrating with those dear to you this season, and that you consider stopping by one of our Texas de Brazil restaurants for an unforgettable Thanksgiving meal. Or, order one of our amazing Thanksgiving takeout feasts: succulent sliced turkey breast, peppercorn gravy, our signature beans and rice, a sweet and delicious sweet potato casserole, and fresh green beans are available in two sizes to feed the whole family.