Bolinho de Chuva

Bolinho de chuva, which translates to “raindrop cake” in English, is a popular and beloved Brazilian dessert. These small, round, and puffy balls of goodness are reminiscent of doughnut holes and are a delightful treat for any occasion. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of bolinho de chuva and share a recipe so you can enjoy this sweet delight at home.

Origins of Bolinho de Chuva: Bolinho de chuva is a traditional Brazilian dessert that has its roots in Portuguese cuisine. It is believed to have been brought to Brazil by Portuguese immigrants and has since become a beloved treat among Brazilians of all ages. The name “bolinho de chuva” is said to have originated from the idea that the fluffy dough balls resemble raindrops when they are deep-fried.

Recipe for Bolinho de Chuva: Here’s a simple recipe to make bolinho de chuva at home:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and egg until well combined.
3. Gradually pour the milk and egg mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until you have a smooth batter. The batter should have a thick consistency.
4. In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil should be at least 2 inches deep.
5. Once the oil is hot, use a spoon or a cookie scoop to drop small portions of the batter into the oil. Fry the bolinho de chuva in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
6. Fry the bolinhos until they are golden brown on all sides, turning them occasionally with a slotted spoon. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
7. Use the slotted spoon to remove the fried bolinhos from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Repeat the frying process with the remaining batter until all the bolinhos are cooked.
9. Once the bolinhos have cooled slightly, dust them generously with powdered sugar.
10. Serve the bolinho de chuva warm and enjoy!

Bolinho de chuva is best enjoyed fresh and warm. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft and pillowy interior, making each bite a delightful experience. They are often enjoyed as a snack or dessert, and they pair well with a cup of coffee or tea.