Coxinha: Brazil's Beloved Teardrop-Shaped Snack

A deep dive into one of Brazil's most iconic street foods that has captured hearts and palates across the nation and beyond.

Origins and Etymology

Coxinha (pronounced ko-SHEEN-ya) literally means "little thigh" in Portuguese, referring to its original chicken thigh shape. This beloved Brazilian snack originated in São Paulo during the late 19th century.

According to popular legend, it was created at the request of a young prince, the son of Princess Isabel, who would only eat chicken thighs. When chicken thighs weren't available one day, a clever palace cook created a teardrop-shaped pastry filled with shredded chicken to satisfy the prince's craving.

The Traditional Recipe

The Filling

At its heart, coxinha features a rich filling made from:

• Shredded chicken (traditionally thigh meat)
• Softened cream cheese (requeijão in Brazil)
• Finely chopped onions and garlic
• Fresh parsley
• Seasonings including salt, pepper, and sometimes nutmeg

The Dough

The distinctive dough that encases the filling is made with:

• Chicken broth (often from cooking the chicken)
• All-purpose flour
• Butter
• Salt

The Coating

The final touch includes:

• Beaten eggs
• Fine breadcrumbs
• Oil for deep frying

Cultural Significance

Coxinha has evolved from royal origins to become a beloved street food found in virtually every corner of Brazil. It's a staple at Brazilian padarias (bakeries), lanchonetes (snack bars), and street food carts. The snack is particularly popular during afternoon coffee breaks, known as "café da tarde" in Brazil.

Perfect Pairings

Coxinhas are traditionally served with:

• Brazilian hot sauce (pimenta)
• Ice-cold beer
• Guaraná (a popular Brazilian soft drink)
• Strong Brazilian coffee
• Chimichurri sauce (a more modern adaptation)

Modern Variations

While the traditional chicken filling remains the most popular, modern versions include:

• Cheese and ham (Romeo e Julieta style)
• Shrimp
• Hearts of palm
• Beef
• Vegetarian versions with corn and cheese

Cultural Impact

Today, coxinha represents more than just food - it's a symbol of Brazilian culinary creativity and social gathering. It's common to see Brazilians meeting friends for "um café e uma coxinha" (a coffee and a coxinha), making it an integral part of Brazilian social culture.

Regional Differences

Different regions of Brazil have their own takes on coxinha:

• São Paulo: Known for the traditional teardrop shape and cream cheese in the filling
• Rio de Janeiro: Often smaller in size and served in large quantities
• Northeast Brazil: Sometimes spicier versions with local peppers
• South Brazil: Larger versions with more elaborate fillings

Tips for Perfect Coxinha

• The dough should be kneaded until smooth and pliable
• The filling must be completely cool before assembling
• The shape should resemble a teardrop or chicken thigh
• The oil temperature should be maintained at around 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying
• Double-coating in breadcrumbs ensures a crispy exterior

Coxinha represents the perfect blend of Brazilian creativity, cultural heritage, and culinary excellence. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or as part of a larger meal, it continues to delight food lovers worldwide with its unique combination of crispy exterior and savory filling.