Have you ever craved a crunchy snack to pair with your afternoon coffee? If the answer is yes, get ready for this recipe. We are sharing a wonderful, delicious, and surprising way to prepare fried tapioca starch biscuits (biscoitos de polvilho frito). It’s an explosion of flavor and crunch that is sure to win over your palate.
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons milk (approx. 90 ml)
- 6 tablespoons water (approx. 90 ml)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (approx. 45 ml)
- 2 1/2 cups sour manioc starch (polvilho azedo) – approx. 300g
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
How to Prepare Fried Tapioca Starch Biscuits:
- Start by heating the milk, water, and oil in the microwave for about one minute and ten seconds, or until the mixture reaches a boiling point.
- In a bowl, mix the sour manioc starch, sugar, and salt. Add the hot liquid mixture and stir until homogeneous. Let the dough cool slightly.
- Once the dough is lukewarm, add the eggs and mix until you have a firm dough that can be shaped by hand. If the dough is too soft, add a little more starch until you reach the desired consistency.
- With greased hands, take small portions of the dough and shape the biscuits as you prefer.
- Heat oil in a pan, and once it is hot, fry the biscuits until golden brown. Make sure to turn them so they cook evenly.
- Remove the biscuits from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Pro Tip:
An important tip for this recipe is to eat the biscuits immediately after frying. They are best when fresh and crunchy, so they aren’t ideal for storing for long periods. Prepare only the amount you plan to eat and enjoy the crispiness!
Prep Time and Servings:
The preparation time for these fried tapioca biscuits is relatively quick. From start to finish, you will spend about 30 minutes. The recipe yields approximately 21 pieces, but you can adjust the size of the biscuits according to your preference.
A Bit of History:
Have you ever wondered where these tapioca starch biscuits come from and how this crunchy treat became so popular? Let us tell you a bit about the history behind these irresistible snacks.
These biscuits are a traditional Brazilian delicacy, originating from indigenous cuisine. Manioc starch (polvilho), obtained from the cassava root, is the base for these treats, which were prepared by native tribes long before the arrival of European settlers.
Over time, the recipe was adapted and refined, gaining both sweet and savory variations. Today, they are a common snack all over Brazil, enjoyed by people of all ages. Furthermore, they are an excellent option for those looking for a gluten-free snack, as manioc starch does not contain this protein.
The unique crunch of these biscuits is the result of the preparation process, which involves mixing the starch with hot liquids and frying it in hot oil. The dough expands, creating a texture that makes it impossible to eat just one.
Another interesting fact is that these biscuits are very versatile. You can find them in different shapes, from traditional sticks to more creative forms. They are perfect to be consumed on their own, with a cup of coffee, or even as a side dish.
Enjoy your crunchy snack and see you next time!