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Pirao

A smooth and savory porridge made by whisking toasted cassava flour into simmering flavorful fish broth until thickened.

25 minEasyServes 4180 cal/serving

BrazilianSideStovetopPescatarianGluten-FreeNut-FreeDairy-FreeSoy-FreeEgg-FreeShellfish-FreeSesame-FreeAlcohol-FreeNightshade-FreeCorn-Free

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Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 cups fish broth
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup toasted cassava flour
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Add 1/2 cup diced yellow onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sauteing for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent.

  3. 3

    Pour in 3 cups fish broth and 1/2 tsp salt, bringing the mixture to a simmer.

  4. 4

    Gradually stream in 1 cup toasted cassava flour while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

  5. 5

    Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring constantly until thick and velvet smooth.

  6. 6

    Remove from heat and fold in 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro right before serving.

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Questions

What is Pirao?

A smooth and savory porridge made by whisking toasted cassava flour into simmering flavorful fish broth until thickened. This reference files it under Brazilian side: made on the stovetop, rated easy and about 25 minutes start to finish.

How do I know the sauce has reduced enough in Pirao?

Step 5 reads: "Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring constantly until thick and velvet smooth." Go by step 5, and note that a wider pan gets there faster. The usual test is that the sauce coats the back of a spoon and a finger drawn through it leaves a clean line.

Is there a substitute for cilantro in Pirao?

The entry for Pirao calls for 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped. In its place: Flat-leaf parsley with a squeeze of lime, for anyone who tastes soap. The dish loses its signature note but stays fresh.

How many calories are in Pirao?

One serving (the recipe makes 4) is about 180 calories, with 4 g protein, 32 g carbohydrate and 4 g fat, plus 2 g fiber and 480 mg sodium. The figures are estimates computed from the ingredient list.

How long does Pirao keep?

Refrigerate what is left of Pirao within two hours and eat it within three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Serve it with

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