Brigadeiro

The Brigadeiro is a very popular Brazilian delicacy, similar to chocolate pralines. Here I propose the traditional recipe, enriched with an Italian touch, perhaps using good quality Italian cocoa.

Ingredients

• 1 can of condensed milk (about 395 grams)
• 20 grams of unsalted butter
• 3 heaping tablespoons of cocoa powder (preferably high quality, for the Italian touch)
• Chocolate sprinkles (or, if you want to give an even more local touch, you could use hazelnut or toasted almond granules)

Preparation

1. In a heavy-bottomed pan, pour the condensed milk, butter, and sifted cocoa powder to avoid lumps.
2. Turn on the heat to medium-low and mix constantly with a wooden spoon.
3. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and pour the mixture onto a plate lightly greased with butter. Allow to cool completely.
5. Once the mixture is cold, grease your hands with a little butter and begin to form walnut-sized balls.
6. Roll each ball in the chocolate sprinkles or hazelnut/almond granules, making sure they are completely covered.
7. Place the Brigadeiro in paper cups and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Curiosity

The name “Brigadeiro” refers to Brigadier Eduardo Gomes, a Brazilian politician from the ’40s. The sweets were created for his presidential campaign, and although he did not win the election, the sweets became a success all over Brazil.

To serve the Brigadeiro in an even more special way, you can pair them with a good Italian dessert wine, like a Passito di Pantelleria or a Vin Santo. The sweet and complex flavor will perfectly complement the softness and richness of the sweet.