The coxinha is undoubtedly one of the most beloved and popular snacks in Brazil, but have you ever wondered how this culinary delight came about? Let's dive into the history of this appetizer that has its roots in the 19th century in São Paulo.
History and Legends
The coxinha as we know it can be considered a creative evolution of chicken croquettes, a recipe brought to Brazil by European immigrants. Over time, this snack developed unique characteristics that made it distinct in the Brazilian palate.
Among the various legends surrounding the origin of the coxinha, one of the most fascinating tells that it was created by a cook who served a high society family in São Paulo. At that time, chicken thighs were the most prized by the couple and their guests, often leaving other parts of the chicken, such as the breast, in abundance. Looking to innovate and make use of these leftovers, the cook came up with the idea of shredding the chicken breast and wrapping it in dough shaped like a thigh, thus giving birth to the coxinha we love so much today.
This story, in addition to illustrating the capacity for reinvention in cooking, shows how deeply the coxinha has rooted itself in Brazilian culture, becoming a true national passion. When we savor a coxinha, we are not just enjoying a delicious snack, but also a piece of Brazil's rich cultural tapestry.