Brazil Culture - Food

Brazilian cooking is rich in traditions and ingredients that well reflect the country’s many ethnics. Brazil food culture reflects the meal habits, cooking style and recipes commonly found on the land. The different regions of Brazil have their own typical food and it varies from region to region.

Breakfast

Also known as Cafe da Manha, breakfast is a quick and simple meal in Brazil. Like many Singaporeans, Brazilians do not eat breakfast or they will just have coffee with milk and crackers.

If they do make the effort to have a good breakfast, the food items usually include bread rolls, cheese, fresh fruits and juices or coffee. Besides of homemade breakfast, cafeterias and bakeries also offer a variety of pastries and coffee for people on their way to work.

Lunch

Lunch (Almoco) is the largest and most important meal of the day for Brazilians. Unlike Singaporeans who often have to rush through or even skip their lunch, they will spend at least an hour on it. The main staples are rice and beans which are served every day in homes and restaurants. Consumed together with salad, vegetable and a meat item, Brazilians often enjoy their lunch. However, the meal will only be completed with a dessert, which could be a fruit, custard or ice cream.

Dinner

Dinner or supper (Jantar) is very similar to lunch in terms of the food items. However, Brazilians can have their dinner anytime after 7 pm. In big cities such as Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo, people often start their dinner after 10 pm. This is unlike Singaporeans who often follow a fixed dinner timing.

Dining Etiquette

Brazilians table etiquette tends to be more casual and do not follow strict rules. However, there are some important customs and culture to take note of.

1) It is a must to wash one’s hand before a meal.

2) In most homes, the lady of the house does not help to serve the meal. Instead, she will encourage them to help themselves to as much food as possible.

3) Taking more food that one can finish is deemed as impolite.

4) Second servings are common and the host will often asks everyone if they would like more.

5) Brazilians do not make unnecessary noises while eating. For example, slurping and burping are considered impolite.

Simple yet popular - Feijoada

Feijoada is considered the national dish of Brazil and is traditionally served on a Saturday during festive meals to share with family and friends. It is a popular and humble meal made up of black beans and a variety of meats such as dried beef and sausage. It is traditionally served with rice, manioc meal (a root vegetable) and orange slices.

National dish: Feijoada