Little Hidden

A traditional Brazilian dish that brings a taste of Brazil into your kitchen.
Little Hidden pinit

Escondidinho: A Brazilian Delight

Escondidinho, translating to “little hidden one” in Portuguese, is a savory Brazilian dish that has won the hearts of many. Its layers of creamy, mashed yams or cassava and a rich, flavorful filling, typically made of shredded meat, create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. This dish is a testament to the creativity and richness of Brazilian cuisine, offering a comforting and satisfying meal experience.

Why You’ll Love Escondidinho

  • Comfort Food: It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any day of the year.
  • Flavorful: The combination of spices and ingredients brings out an irresistible taste.
  • Versatile: You can choose between different fillings like beef, chicken, or even vegetarian options.

Occasions to Serve Escondidinho

Escondidinho is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that fits perfectly into various occasions:

  • Family gatherings, where its hearty nature brings everyone together.
  • Special occasions, providing a unique and delightful option on the table.
  • Weeknight dinners, as it can be prepared ahead, making mealtime stress-free.

Embracing the essence of Brazilian cuisine, Escondidinho is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Its rich layers and comforting taste make it a favorite among those who appreciate good food and cultural exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, making Escondidinho will bring a taste of Brazil right into your kitchen.

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 45 mins Cook Time 60 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 55 mins
Servings: 4 Calories: 650

Description

Escondidinho, translating to 'little hidden one' in Portuguese, is a savory Brazilian dish featuring layers of creamy, mashed yams or cassava and a rich, flavorful filling of shredded meat, offering a comforting and satisfying meal experience.

Ingredients

For the Cassava/Yam Layer

For the Meat Filling

Instructions

Preparing the Cassava/Yam Layer

  1. Boil the cassava or yams in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain and return them to the pot.
  2. Add milk and butter to the pot. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Preparing the Meat Filling

  1. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until they are soft and fragrant.
  2. Add the shredded meat to the skillet and cook until browned. Pour in the tomato sauce and add your seasonings. Simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

Assembling and Baking

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking dish, layer half of the cassava/yam mixture at the bottom.
  2. Spread the meat filling evenly over the first layer. Cover with the remaining cassava/yam mixture.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top layer is golden brown and crispy.
  4. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Escondidinho!
Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 portion

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 650kcal
Calories from Fat 200kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22gg34%
Saturated Fat 10gg50%
Trans Fat 0gg
Cholesterol 90mgmg30%
Sodium 700mgmg30%
Potassium 1050mgmg30%
Total Carbohydrate 75gg25%
Dietary Fiber 5gg20%
Sugars 8gg
Protein 35gg70%

Vitamin A 200IU IU
Vitamin C 20mg mg
Calcium 150mg mg
Iron 4mg mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mixture of mushrooms and lentils. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Keywords: Escondidinho, Brazilian cuisine, comfort food, cassava, yams, shredded meat

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Can I make Escondidinho ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Escondidinho ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you're starting from cold.

Can I freeze Escondidinho?

Escondidinho freezes well. Cool it completely, cover it tightly, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until thoroughly warm.

Is there a vegan option for Escondidinho?

Yes, for a vegan Escondidinho, use plant-based milk and butter for the cassava/yam layer, and substitute the meat with a mixture of mushrooms and lentils for the filling.

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Annie Elison

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi ! I am Annie Elison! I’m a proud mom of two wonderful children and a devoted food enthusiast from the USA. Cooking has always been my passion, and over the years, I’ve collected a treasure trove of recipes that I’m excited to share with you.

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