Cuscuz Paulista is a traditional Brazilian dish that originates from the state of São Paulo. It is a savory dish that consists of a molded mixture of cornmeal, vegetables, and protein such as tuna or chicken. It is typically served sliced, and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course.
The dish has its roots in North Africa, where couscous is a staple food. The Portuguese brought couscous to Brazil during the colonial era, and it has since been adapted to local tastes and ingredients to become Cuscuz Paulista.
To make Cuscuz Paulista, start by sautéing onions, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil. Add canned tomatoes, corn, and peas, and cook until the vegetables are tender. Then add water and bring the mixture to a boil. Slowly stir in the cornmeal, and cook until the mixture is thick and no longer sticks to the pan.
Next, add your protein of choice, such as flaked tuna or shredded chicken, and mix well. Pour the mixture into a mold, and press down firmly. Allow the cuscuz to cool completely before unmolding and slicing.
Cuscuz Paulista can be served with a variety of accompaniments, such as hard-boiled eggs, olives, and sliced tomatoes. It is typically enjoyed with hot sauce, and can also be served with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Here is a recipe for Cuscuz Paulista:
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can corn
- 1 can peas
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 1 can flaked tuna or 2 cups shredded chicken
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil until tender.
- Add the canned tomatoes, corn, and peas, and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are soft.
- Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Slowly stir in the cornmeal, and cook until the mixture is thick and no longer sticks to the pan.
- Add the flaked tuna or shredded chicken, and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and press down firmly.
- Allow the cuscuz to cool completely before unmolding and slicing.
- Serve with hard-boiled eggs, olives, sliced tomatoes, and hot sauce. Cuscuz Paulista is typically served with hot tomato sauce or topped with hard-boiled eggs, olives, and parsley. It is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. Cuscuz Paulista is also commonly served during festive occasions and celebrations in São Paulo, such as weddings and birthdays.
