Pork Tenderloin with Dried Apricots-Gouda-Mascarpone Filling, with Cashew Rice Pilaf and Farofa (Lombo Recheado com Damascos Secos, Queijo Gouda e Mascarpone, com Arroz de Castanha-de-Cajú e Farofa)

Christmas in Brazil is celebrated on the evening of the 24th and dinner is served only after mid-night, on the 25th. It might sound kind of crazy for most people here in the US, but it is just how it is done down there... Since people wait for supper for a long time, it better give them some sustenance! This meal translates very well what a traditional Brazilian Christmas supper looks like. In this recipe, the pork tenderloin is moist and well seasoned, with a creamy and sweet filling, complimented with the richness of cashews from the rice and crunchiness from the farofa. This family recipe was passed over to me by a friend, and I am excited to present it to you. Enjoy!

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White Chocolate Flan with Peppermint Caramel Sauce

It is no secret that flan is my favorite dessert. I love all sorts of flavors and variations, and I really wanted to create a recipe using the traditional flavors of the holidays. So after a lot of thought I came up with a recipe for a White Chocolate Flan with Peppermint Sauce, and I am proud to say it turned out exactly how I had dreamed it would: rich, smooth, and with just a touch of peppermint flavor. This dessert translates all the amazing sweet tastes of Christmas! In fact, it is even more special to me because I was able to add some flavors of the holidays in the United States to a traditional dessert from my country: Brazil. Merry Christmas friends! Feliz Natal amigos! I hope a slice of my flan brings a smile to your face this holiday season!

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Fig and Prosciutto Phyllo Appetizer

Sweet and savory at the same time, my flaky Fig and Prosciutto Phyllo bites have a touch of creamy mascarpone and a drizzle of honey. Its shape resembles ravioli and it is an easy-to-make finger food. Also, it can be made one day ahead, which makes it handy for the Holidays and large gatherings. I hope you and your friends enjoy!

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Spinach Salad with Caramelized Pumpkin and Goat Cheese

Pumpkin is such a wonderful, nutritious ingredient that can be added to sweet and savory dishes. In this spinach salad, the pumpkin is caramelized in the oven and paired with goat cheese, for a touch of tartness. Lightly caramelized almonds compliment this rich salad and add a crunchy bite. This salad is all about enjoying holiday flavors with healthy greens!

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Pumpkin-Coconut Pie

This one doesn't even need any whipping cream! So delicious!!!

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Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s time to plan some delicious meals for the festivities. We all love the traditional turkey, but there are other great proteins that fit the holiday table!  I have some meals, sides, appetizers, and dessert suggestions that might be a little bit out of the ordinary, but they will certainly bring a twist to the table! So keep an open mind and check out what the Brazilian is serving to family and friends this season.

Baked Pumpkin with Chicken, Coconut Milk and Cranberries

Each pumpkin should serve 6 to 8 people and make a great decoration for the table as well. Remove the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini and carrots and turn it into a beautiful side dish.

Pumpkin with Shrimp (Camarao na Moranga) 

This recipe is typical from Brazil but it will sure bring a twist to the table and make a big statement. Use chicken instead of shrimp if you prefer. Slow cooked pork shoulder will also taste great with the pumpkin and cheese combination.

Chicken Pot-Pie Brazilian Style (Empadao de Frango)

Comfort food that will have everyone coming back for more. This is my Mother’s recipe and it is perfect for the fall days, including Thanksgiving.

Lamb Stew with Raisins, Pine Nuts, and Mint

This lamb dish has the taste of the Holidays!

Avocado and Candied Cashew Pie 

It’s OK to also have a different pie other then the pumpkin pie! The candied cashews on top bring a holiday feel to the delicate taste of the avocado filling.

Christmas Recipe Ideas

It’s time to plan some delicious meals for the festivities. I have some meals, sides, appetizers, and dessert suggestions that might be a little bit out of the ordinary, but they will certainly bring a little twist to your table! So keep an open mind and check out what the Brazilian is serving to family and friends this season.

Eggplant Antipasto 

Another one of my Mom’s favorite recipes, this antipasto can be made with up to 2 weeks in advance and it is perfect with pita bread. Your guests will need a little appetizer while they wait for the big feast!

Lamb Roulade with Tomatoes and Gouda, Mint Pesto, and Farofa 

The Farofa recipe featured in this meal is the most traditional side for Christmas supper in Brazil.

Moroccan Couscous with Dried Fruits and Nuts 

Perfect side for the turkey, the stuffing will be jealous!

Apricot-Cranberry Pork Chops

This should be renamed “Holiday Pork Chops” because it has all those traditional flavors!

Brigadeiro – The Famous Brazilian Chocolate Bonbon 

This dessert will please everyone from kids to adults. Use holiday colors sprinkles (green and red) on top to make the little bonbons even more special!