Tudo Sobre o Barreado: O Sabor Tradicional do Paraná
Barreado
is one of the most
emblematic dishes of Paraná's gastronomy, with a rich history and unmistakable flavor. Originating from the coast of Paraná, this dish is a true symbol of the local culture, especially in the city of
Morretes and Antonina, where the recipe has been passed down through generations.
So, what is the true origin of barreado?
Although there are many versions, the most accepted one speaks of a blend of cultures: it starts with the Portuguese tradition of well-seasoned meats, passes through the Azorean tradition of cooking on the ground with embers or steam from volcanic chimneys, and finally, the Indigenous tradition of mixing everything with manioc flour.
So, what is Barreado?
Barreado is a dish made from beef, usually chuck, muscle, or brisket, cooked for many hours until it becomes extremely tender, shredding easily. The secret of this dish lies in the cooking method: the meat is slowly cooked in a clay pot, along with seasonings like garlic, onion, tomato, salt, black pepper, and cumin. The difference is that the pot is sealed with a mixture of manioc flour, wheat flour, wood ashes, and boiling water, creating a kind of "clay" that keeps the steam inside the pot and ensures perfect meat cooking.
The meat and the broth resulting from the long cooking, which can last from 12 to 24 hours, mix with the manioc flour, forming a dense and flavorful dish served with white rice, farofa, and fried banana.
The History of Barreado
Barreado has deep roots in the coastal tradition of Paraná and is the product of a combination of several cultures. Initially, the dish was created for farmers who traveled every morning to sell their products in the center of Morretes and Antonina. They needed a hearty and nutritious meal, something that could be prepared slowly and easily transported.
Due to its cooking method and ability to be reheated multiple times without losing its flavor, barreado soon became traditional during the Entrudo festivities, which preceded the Brazilian Carnival, where it was prepared for large groups.
As the festivities spread, the dish began to be served with fried banana or sliced orange, combining sweet flavors with the broth and shredded meat, creating an unforgettable dish.
How to Prepare Barreado?
The traditional recipe for barreado involves the use of fresh meat and bacon, with aromatic seasonings like garlic, onion, tomato, bay leaves, black pepper, and turmeric, among others. The meat and bacon are cut into small pieces and left to marinate with the seasonings before being cooked in the clay pot with a mixture of manioc flour, wheat, and ashes, which seal the pot during cooking.
Main Ingredients:
- 5 kg of fresh beef
- 500 g of fresh bacon
- 3 large onions
- 4 large tomatoes
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 4 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- Black pepper to taste
- 4 bunches of parsley and green onion
- 1 bunch of basil
- Vinegar and salt to taste
Mixture to Seal the Pot:
- 2 cups of manioc flour
- 1 cup of wheat flour
- Wood ashes
- Boiling water
Preparation Method:
Cut and clean the meat and bacon, cutting them into small pieces. Add the seasonings and let marinate for at least one night.
In the clay pot, line it with bacon and cook until it melts. Then, add the seasoned meat. Cover with a banana leaf, heated on the fire to soften, and tie the ends of the pot tightly.
Place the mixture of manioc flour, wheat flour, and ashes along the edges of the pot, sealing it completely.
Cook on high heat for the first few hours, then reduce the temperature to the lowest. The cooking time can range from 12 to 24 hours. When the banana leaf is very dark, the barreado will be ready!
Where to Eat the Best Barreado?
Although barreado has spread throughout Paraná, it is still widely consumed in the coastal cities such as Morretes, Antonina, and Guaraqueçaba, where you can find the most traditional version of the dish. Some restaurants and inns in the region still maintain the custom of preparing barreado with great care, respecting the traditions passed down through generations.
Tips for Enjoying Barreado:
Try the dish with
crispy farofa and
banana
for a perfect combination, and accompany it with a good red wine or even coffee, as is traditionally done in some regions.
Why Barreado is a Must-Try?
Barreado is much more than a meal – it is a true cultural and gastronomic experience. By savoring this dish, you dive into the history and traditions of Paraná, tasting the flavor of authentic cuisine that has withstood the test of time. There is no way to visit Paraná without trying this typical delicacy!
Enjoy Barreado with Us:
For those visiting Paraná, Brasul Trips offers gastronomic tours that include a unique barreado tasting experience, with the opportunity to explore the local culture and the tourist attractions that are part of this tradition.
📞 (41) 98840-0172
Don't miss the chance to taste barreado in the heart of Paraná!
Book now and embark on this delicious gastronomic journey with Brasul Trips!
