Brazilian cuisine is full of delicious snacks called salgados (savory) and doces (sweet). Whether you're new to Brazilian food or a longtime fan, this guide will help you navigate the menu like a pro.
Savory Snacks (Salgados)
1. Coxinha
The king of Brazilian snacks. A teardrop-shaped fritter filled with shredded chicken in a creamy dough, coated in breadcrumbs and fried. The name means "little thigh" because it's shaped like a chicken drumstick. Try it with catupiry (creamy cheese) for extra indulgence.
2. Kibe (Quibe)
Originally from the Middle East but adopted and loved by Brazilians. Made with bulgur wheat and seasoned ground beef, shaped into a football and deep-fried. Also available with catupiry filling for a Brazilian twist.
3. Beef Risoles
A half-moon shaped pastry with a thin, crispy coating filled with seasoned ground beef. The dough is lighter than coxinha, making it perfect for those who want something less heavy.
4. Esfiha
Another Middle Eastern import that Brazilians have made their own. An open-faced or closed pastry filled with seasoned ground beef or cheese. The Brazilian version often has a slightly sweet dough.
5. Bolinha de Queijo (Cheese Ball)
Exactly what it sounds like — balls of cheese coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden. The cheese inside gets melty and stretchy. Simple, addictive, and perfect as an appetizer.
6. Chicken Empanada
The famous Brazilian pastel with chicken filling. A crispy, golden half-moon pastry filled with seasoned shredded chicken. The thin, flaky dough gives way to a savory, well-spiced filling. Perfect as a quick snack or part of a larger spread.
7. Chicken Pie with Catupiry
A Brazilian twist on the classic chicken pie. Tender shredded chicken mixed with creamy catupiry cheese, all wrapped in a soft, golden crust. The catupiry adds a rich, creamy texture that makes this irresistible.
8. Potato Bread with Catupiry
Soft, fluffy bread made with potato dough, filled with creamy catupiry cheese. The potato gives the bread a unique, pillowy texture while the catupiry oozes out with every bite. A comfort food favorite.
Sweet Snacks (Doces)
9. Churros
Brazilian churros are different from Spanish ones — they're filled! Usually with doce de leite (caramelized milk), chocolate, or cream. Crispy on the outside, soft inside, and coated in cinnamon sugar.
How to Order
At Love Snacks, you can order individual pieces or party packs with a mix of your favorites. First time? Start with the classics: coxinha with catupiry, kibe, and churros for dessert.