Traditional Food and Dishes in Taquara, Brazil

Introduction to Taquara's Culinary Delights

Taquara, a town nestled in the state of Rio Grande do Sul in southern Brazil, is a gastronomic treasure trove. Known for its rich cultural heritage and hearty cuisine, Taquara offers a feast for both locals and visitors alike. From traditional meat dishes to unique regional flavors, the food of Taquara reflects the history and traditions of this region.

The Staple Dishes of Taquara

1. Churrasco Gaúcho: The signature dish of Rio Grande do Sul, churrasco gaúcho is a feast of grilled meats that includes various cuts like fillet, flank steak, pork ribs, and sausages. This style of cooking is closely associated with the gaúchos (cowboys) who settled in the region.

2. Feijoada: A classic Brazilian dish made from black beans and various types of meat such as bacon, sausages, and sometimes beef or pork. It's often served with rice, collard greens, orange slices, and a side of farofa (toasted manioc flour).

3. Farofa de Churrasco: A popular accompaniment to churrasco where the grilled meat is mashed together with toasted manioc flour, garlic, and onions.

4. Vacas Gostosas (Savoury Cows): A type of empanada filled with ground beef or pork seasoned with typical ingredients like cebola-marinha (wild onion), pimentão-duro (dried red pepper), and aji (hot pepper).

5. Bife à Parmegiana: A variation on the classic Italian dish, this is typically made with beef steak topped with a layer of mozzarella cheese and then breaded and fried.

Specialty Foods Unique to Taquara

6. Churros Gaúchos: Thin, crispy pastries dusted with sugar and filled with dulce de leche or chocolate. Often enjoyed as a sweet treat after meals.

7. Pão-de-Presunto (Ham Bread): A type of sandwich made from bread slices stuffed with ham and melted cheese. It’s simple yet delicious, perfect for a quick snack or meal.

8. Cocada: A traditional Brazilian confection made from shredded coconut cooked with sugar until it caramelizes. Taquara is known for its high-quality cocadas due to the abundance of local coconuts.

9. Bolinho de Mandioca: Small, fluffy balls made from grated and mashed cassava (mandioca) and often served as a side dish or snack.

10. Bife à Lagareiro: A unique style of steak where the meat is cooked between two metal plates and then drizzled with olive oil and a special blend of herbs.

Local Beverages to Savor

11. Cachaça: The national spirit of Brazil, often enjoyed as a traditional drink or used in cocktails like caipirinha.

12. Mate: A strong, herbal tea traditionally served in a bomba (cow horn) gourd with a metal straw called a chimarrão. It’s a staple beverage among locals and visitors alike.

Where to Try Traditional Taquara Cuisine

Taquara boasts numerous restaurants and local eateries that offer traditional dishes and specialties. Here are the top 20 places to enjoy authentic Taquara cuisine:

1. Restaurante São José
2. Churrascaria Gaúcha
3. Fogão do Guto
4. Beco da Feijoada
5. Pão de Açúcar Restaurante
6. Tambaú Steakhouse
7. Vila Rica
8. Largo do Machado
9. Casa da Cozinha
10. Churrascaria São João
11. Sítio do Caju
12. Açaí Barra
13. Restaurante Búfala
14. Pão-de-Presunto Serra Gaúcha
15. Bolinho de Mandioca Casa da Tia Lívia
16. Cocada do Carioca
17. Churros Gaúchos da Tia Marisa
18. Mate Chico Venda
19. Feijoada Nacional
20. Bife à Lagareiro Restaurante

Taquara’s culinary landscape offers a delightful exploration of traditional Brazilian flavors and local specialties, making it an essential destination for food enthusiasts traveling to the region.