Brazilian Carne de Sol, directly translating to “sun meat,” is a cherished delicacy from the sun-soaked regions of Brazil. Prepared traditionally by salt curing and sun-drying, this flavorful meat can be used in various dishes or enjoyed on its own. Dive into this authentic recipe to bring a piece of Brazil to your kitchen.
Equipment Required for the recipe
- Large mixing bowl
- Refrigerator
- Heavy skillet or frying pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
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Estimated time
- Preparation time: 24-48 hours (for curing)
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 24-48 hours + 20 minutes
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Ingredients
- 1 kg of fresh beef (preferably from the hindquarters)
- Coarse salt (as needed)
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
- Fresh parsley and green onions for garnish
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Instructions
- Begin by cleaning the beef and removing any excess fat.
- Spread a generous amount of coarse salt on all sides of the beef, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Place the salted beef on a wire rack in a tray, allowing air circulation around it.
- Refrigerate for 24 to 48 hours, occasionally draining off any liquid that accumulates.
- Once the beef has cured, rinse off all the salt under cold water.
- In a skillet or frying pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until golden.
- Place the cured beef in the skillet and sear on all sides until nicely browned.
- Transfer to an oven preheated to 180°C and bake for 15 minutes or until desired doneness.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice against the grain and serve garnished with fresh parsley and green onions.
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Important notes about the recipe:
- The curing time can vary depending on the thickness of the meat and personal preference. A longer cure will result in a saltier and drier texture.
- It’s crucial to remove all salt from the surface of the meat before cooking to avoid over-saltiness.
- Carne de Sol can also be used as a base meat in other dishes, such as stews.
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Conclusion
Brazilian Carne de Sol is a celebration of tradition, flavor, and the art of preserving. Its roots run deep in Brazilian culture, symbolizing the resourcefulness and creativity of its people. By following this recipe, you are not just preparing a meal but experiencing a Brazilian culinary journey that has stood the test of time. Paired with a cold beverage and surrounded by friends or family, it’s more than food—it’s a memory in the making.
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Nutritional Information per serving:
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 1100mg (depends on curing duration)
- Sugar: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Serving Size: 100g
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