Welcome to the wonderful world of Beiju de Coco, a delicious treat from Brazil! This tasty dish is known as a coconut tapioca pancake and is loved for its unique texture and sweet flavor. Beiju de Coco is a popular choice in Brazilian cuisine, especially in the northern regions, where coconut trees thrive. The combination of tapioca and coconut gives it a special taste that many people adore.

Historically, Beiju dates back to the indigenous peoples of Brazil, who made pancakes from cassava (a root vegetable). Over time, the recipe evolved, incorporating ingredients like coconut that reflect Brazil’s rich culture. Today, Beiju de Coco is enjoyed as a snack or dessert, and it’s even a favorite at parties and festivals!

This recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also simple to make. Whether you’re looking to try something new or impress your friends, Beiju de Coco will surely be a hit!

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Tapioca flour 1 cup
Grated coconut (fresh or dried) ½ cup
Water ½ cup
Sugar (optional) 2 tablespoons
Salt 1 pinch
Butter or oil (for cooking) As needed

<p*Note: You can use desiccated coconut if fresh coconut is not available. Adjust the sugar according to your taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tapioca Flour: In a bowl, mix the tapioca flour and water. Stir it until the flour absorbs the water, creating a dough-like texture. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
  2. Add Coconut and Sugar: After resting, add the grated coconut, sugar, and a pinch of salt to the dough. Mix well until combined.
  3. Heat the Pan: On medium heat, heat a non-stick skillet or frying pan and add a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Cook the Pancakes: Scoop about ¼ cup of the mixture into the pan and flatten it gently with a spatula. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until it turns golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
  5. Serve: Once both sides are golden, remove the pancake from the pan and serve warm. Enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings!

Nutritional Information

Nutrient Amount Daily Value (%)
Calories 150 7%
Protein 2g 4%
Carbohydrates 30g 10%
Fats 3g 5%
Sugar 5g 6%
Fiber 2g 8%

Tips and Tricks

  • Experiment with Fillings: You can add chocolate chips, banana slices, or even nuts to the batter for a delicious twist.
  • Don’t Rush the Cooking: Make sure to cook on medium heat for even cooking and to get that perfect golden brown color.
  • Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a pan or microwave before serving.
  • Watch Your Consistency: If your batter is too thick, add a little more water. It should be spreadable but not runny.

FAQs

What is Beiju de Coco?

Beiju de Coco is a Brazilian coconut tapioca pancake made with tapioca flour and grated coconut, resulting in a sweet and chewy treat.

Can I use other types of flour?

While the traditional recipe uses tapioca flour, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends if you prefer.

Is Beiju de Coco gluten-free?

Yes! Since it is made primarily from tapioca flour, Beiju de Coco is naturally gluten-free.

How can I make Beiju de Coco vegan?

To make it vegan, simply use oil instead of butter for cooking, and leave out any animal-based ingredients.

How long does it take to make Beiju de Coco?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes, from preparation to cooking.

What do I serve with Beiju de Coco?

You can enjoy it plain or with toppings like honey, syrup, or even fruit for added flavor!

Can I freeze Beiju de Coco?

Yes! You can freeze cooked pancakes in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat them in the toaster or microwave before serving.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days to keep them fresh.

Is Beiju de Coco healthy?

While it is tasty, Beiju de Coco should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet due to its sugar and carbohydrate content.

Can I make Beiju de Coco savory?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like cheese or herbs to create a savory version of Beiju de Coco.

Where can I find tapioca flour?

Tapioca flour is widely available at grocery stores or online, usually found in the baking or gluten-free sections.