Calling all savory snack enthusiasts! Prepare to embark on a flavor adventure to Brazil with Coxinha(Chicken Balls) a savory masterpiece that’s as delicious as it is visually appealing. Imagine a golden, teardrop-shaped croquette boasting a crispy exterior that yields to a warm, flavorful interior. But the magic doesn’t stop there – each Coxinha(Chicken Balls) bursts with a delightful surprise: shredded, seasoned chicken filling that delivers a burst of savory goodness.
Coxinha transcends its status as a mere snack. These iconic treats are a beloved part of Brazilian cuisine, enjoyed at parties, sold by street vendors, or savored as a satisfying lunch or afternoon pick-me-up. The best part? This recipe unlocks the secrets of Coxinha in your own kitchen, requiring readily available ingredients and a simple process.
Unlike complicated appetizers, Coxinha(Chicken Balls) embraces convenience. We’ll utilize shredded chicken, a versatile and flavorful base, for the filling. The magic then lies in the dough – a combination of wheat flour and chicken broth creates a light and airy texture that contrasts perfectly with the crispy exterior.
This recipe empowers you to personalize your Coxinha experience. Want a classic flavor profile? Stick with the traditional shredded chicken. Craving a vegetarian twist? Substitute the chicken with cooked and seasoned jackfruit! The shaping process is a breeze, allowing you to create the signature teardrop form.
Once fried to a golden perfection, your Coxinha will be ready to tantalize your taste buds. This recipe yields approximately servings, making it ideal for gatherings or enjoying a delightful personal Brazilian food adventure. So ditch the boring snacks and embrace the irresistible magic of Coxinha! Follow our simple instructions, and get ready to experience a taste of Brazil in every bite.
Ingredients for the Chicken Balls
The dough:
- 1 liter (4 cups) water
- 150 grams (5.3 ounces) butter (1 1/2 sticks)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 kilogram (1 pound) all-purpose flour
The filling:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 500 grams (1 pound) cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon of your favorite seasoning
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 500 grams (1 pound) of cream cheese.
For assembly:
- 1 egg
- 1/2 liter (2 cups) milk
- Soybean oil for frying
- 1 kilogram (2 pounds) Bread crumbs
Instructions:
- Place the water in a pot and add the butter and salt.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Once the butter has melted, reduce the heat to low and add the flour all at once.
- Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the dough forms a ball and comes away from the sides of the pot.
- Continue stirring for about 2 minutes to cook the dough.
- Remove the dough from the pot and place it on a lightly greased surface.
- Let it cool.
- Heat the oil: Get a large skillet (frying pan) and heat the oil over medium heat on your stovetop.
- Sauté the garlic: Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds, stirring occasionally, until it becomes fragrant.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet with the garlic and cook it for about 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it’s browned and cooked through.
- Season and finish: Stir in the seasoning, salt, and parsley. Cook for another minute or so, just to combine the flavors.
- Cool the filling: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool completely before using it. This will prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and milk.
- Place the bread crumbs in another shallow dish.
- Shape the dough into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Flatten each ball into a disc.
- Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each disc.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to form a teardrop shape.
- Dip each chicken balls in the egg wash and then roll in the bread crumbs.
- Heat the oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken balls in batches for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Drain the chicken balls on paper towels and serve immediately.
Additional Appetizing Options:
- Brazilian Blender Pie: A Symphony of Flavors in Every Bite
- Ham and Cheese “Knee” Bread: A Brazilian Treat with a Twist
- Bolo de Rolo (Guava Cake)
- Embrace the Tropical Flavors of Brazil with Shrimp Bobó
- Fluffy Brazilian Raindrop Beignets