If you have managed to resist falling in love with Brazil up to this point, then consider this game over.
Brazilians have learnt to manufacture a majestic munchy known locally as coxinha (co-sheen-yah). Inside this fried teardrop of salvation you will encounter an irresistible mix of cheese and meat unlike anything you have ever seen the likes of before.
Usually, you will find them available in the frango (chicken) variety, and you can get them either with or without catupiry (a delicious and creamy cheese – get one with catupiry). However, many variations exist and coxinha made with mandioca (cassava root) is one of my personal favorites.
If you’re looking for a late night snack on the way home from the bars, then you are going to be limited in your options, but luckily for you, one of those options will almost always be a coxinha.
I WANT ONE!
The best place to get your coxinha fix is at a suco or salgado joint as they usually have the larger and cheaper varieties of coxinha.
Many restaurants offer coxinha as an appetizer, but they will commonly give you either a large one that you will be forced to share, or many smaller ones that simply won’t get the job done.
They generally cost between R$3 and R$5, but take into account that you will be eating more than one. And trust me – any indigestion brought on as a result of ingesting coxinhas will be worth it. Just remember your bathroom etiquette.