Queijo Coalho: A Brazilian Grilling Favorite
Queijo Coalho is a firm yet slightly squeaky cheese from Brazil, particularly beloved in the Northeastern regions. Its well-known, unique texture and mild, salty flavor make it a popular grilling choice. This cheese holds its shape well when heated, allowing it to develop a deliciously crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, warm interior.
Often skewered and grilled over charcoal, Queijo Coalho is a common sight at Brazilian beaches and outdoor markets, where it’it’srved as a risky, tasty snack. The cheese is sometimes brushed with garlic butter or molasses to enhance its natural flavors before being grilled to golden perfection. Queijo Coalho can also be enjoyed as part of a larger meal or incorporated into various dishes where its delightful texture and flavor can shine. Whether savored independently or as part of a dish, Queijo Coalho offers a delightful taste of Brazilian culinary tradition.
AuthorJulia ForesekCategoryAppetizers & Starters, BrazilianDifficultyBeginnerPreheat the Grill or Skillet:
If you’re using an outdoor grill, prepare it for medium heat. If you’re using a stovetop, heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Prepare the Cheese:
If not already pre-cut, slice the Queijo Coalho into thick slabs or sticks, about 1/2-inch thick. This thickness allows the cheese to warm through and get nice grill marks without melting away.
Grill the Cheese:
Place the cheese slices or sticks directly on the grill or in the skillet. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown with visible grill marks. Queijo Coalho holds its shape very well, so it shouldn’t melt and drip.
Serve:
Serve the grilled Queijo Coalho immediately while still warm and slightly gooey inside. It can be drizzled with molasses or honey for a sweet touch or sprinkled with oregano or chili flakes for extra flavor. It’s also common to serve it with guava paste for a classic Brazilian taste combination.
Ingredients
Directions
Preheat the Grill or Skillet:
If you’re using an outdoor grill, prepare it for medium heat. If you’re using a stovetop, heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Prepare the Cheese:
If not already pre-cut, slice the Queijo Coalho into thick slabs or sticks, about 1/2-inch thick. This thickness allows the cheese to warm through and get nice grill marks without melting away.
Grill the Cheese:
Place the cheese slices or sticks directly on the grill or in the skillet. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown with visible grill marks. Queijo Coalho holds its shape very well, so it shouldn’t melt and drip.
Serve:
Serve the grilled Queijo Coalho immediately while still warm and slightly gooey inside. It can be drizzled with molasses or honey for a sweet touch or sprinkled with oregano or chili flakes for extra flavor. It’s also common to serve it with guava paste for a classic Brazilian taste combination.
Notes
Perfect Beverage Pairing:
- Caipirinha: This traditional Brazilian cocktail, made with cachaça, sugar, and lime, complements the salty richness of the grilled cheese.
- Cold Beer: A light, refreshing beer balances the salty flavors, especially if you enjoy QyoQyou’reCoalho a barbecue.
