“Excellent!” That’s what the Tupi word “Catupiry” means and it’s a fitting description for our next stop: Queijinho. Queijinho isn’t just a place. It is an experience steeped in Brazilian culinary tradition. Since 2008, Queijinho has discovered small producers of handmade cheese all over Brazil. It fosters their craft. It helps them develop their skills.
But what exactly is Queijinho? It is a shop that specializes in Brazilian cheeses. It is a haven for those seeking authentic flavors. It is a testament to Brazil’s rich dairy heritage.
The story of one of Brazil’s most beloved cheese brands, Catupiry, begins with Italian immigrant Mario Silvestrini. He developed this creamy dairy spread in Minas Gerais in 1911. The low acidity of Catupiry made it a versatile ingredient. It soon found its way into countless Brazilian dishes. Think pizzas. Think coxinhas. Think pães de queijo. Think pastéis.
Today, Catupiry has four factories. Two are here in Sāo Paulo. The others are in Goiáis and Minas Gerais. Six families manage the company. All are heirs of the Silvestrini family.
At Queijinho, you will find a wide array of “Queijos Vivos Brasileiros” or Brazilian living cheeses. These cheeses come from all corners of Brazil. They feature different types of milk. They feature different textures. They feature different aromas and flavors.
Beyond cheese, Queijinho offers natural wines. They also offer other “living foods” that pair beautifully with cheese. This includes Jams. This includes antipastos.
Imagine biting into a Pão de queijo filled with Catupiry. The soft dough gives way to the creamy cheese. Its mild flavor complements the bread perfectly. Or envision a pizza topped with requeijão. It is combined with guava paste in a dessert known as “Romeu e Julieta.” The possibilities are endless.
Queijinho embodies the spirit of Brazilian cheese making. It is a celebration of flavor. It is a tribute to the country’s culinary heritage. It is a must-visit destination for any food lover.
So, let us step inside Queijinho. Let’s explore the diverse world of Brazilian cheeses. Let’s savor the unique flavors that await us. Here you experience Brazil. One delicious bite at a time.