The 2016 Rio Olympics have kicked off, and we're feeling that Olympic fever! And also craving some tasty Brazilian food.
We’ve scoured the web and rounded up seven healthy Brazilian recipes to prep you for the games.
From fish stews to acai bowls, these dishes might just trick your mind -- and taste buds -- into thinking you're smack dab in Rio.
1. Black Bean and Vegetable Stew
This super-food stew bursts with vitamins and colors -- thanks to sweet potato, red pepper, green pepper, tomato and kale. You’ll cook the beans and vegetables in a hearty broth flavored with garlic, cumin and thyme. Garnish with cilantro, and your dish is ready to be enjoyed alone or alongside rice (we suggest brown rice!).
For the Full Recipe: Brazilian Black Bean and Vegetable Stew
2. Acai Berry Bowl
Traditionally eaten on the beaches of Brazil, acai bowls have gained immense popularity in the U.S. -- and for good reason. Acai berries offer powerful antioxidant properties and can help suppress inflammation.
Not to mention, they’re rich in protein and a great energy boost -- perfect to kick-start your morning with. While you can top your acai bowl with an endless variety of ingredients, this one features goji berries, raw cocoa powder, shredded coconut and more.
For the Full Recipe: Açai Berry Bowl
3. Turkey Vatapa
This spicy Brazilian turkey soup brims with fiery jalapenos, shredded turkey breast, creamy coconut milk, ground peanuts and light beer (feel free to opt for non-alcoholic beer). It’s a great one-pot meal -- perfect for Olympic-watching gatherings.
For the Full Recipe: Spicy Brazilian Turkey Soup
4. Hearts of Palm Salad Skewers
Rich in potassium and vitamin B-6, hearts of palm take centerstage in this dish. While hearts of palm salad is traditionally served on a plate in Brazil, this recipe uses skewers. Layer the hearts of palm with grape tomatoes, leafy greens and red onion, and top it with drizzles of zesty lemon vinaigrette.
For the Full Recipe: Heart of Palm Salad Skewers (Salada de Palmito no Espeto)
5. Fish Stew
Otherwise known as moqueca, this Brazilian fish stew showcases a few unexpected ingredients. It features green plantain slices, cooked octopus tentacles, shishito peppers and more. Like a little bit of heat? Enjoy it with piri-piri, a traditional Portuguese hot sauce.
For the Full Recipe: Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)
6. Grilled Chicken
This recipe features chicken pieces marinated in garlic oil, and then grilled and topped with a tomato-coconut sauce. The result: sweet and tangy chicken that’s impossible to resist.
For the Full Recipe: Brazilian Grilled Chicken with Tomato-Coconut Sauce
7. Kale and Mango Salad
This kale and mango salad -- also known as salada de couve com manga -- is a cinch to make. Combine the wilted greens with pine nuts and chopped mango. Toss the ingredients with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper, and you've got a simple but vibrant salad that's perfect for the summer games.
For the Full Recipe: Brazilian Kale and Mango Salad (Salada de Couve com Manga)
What Do YOU Think?
Have you ever been to Brazil before? What are some of your favorite Brazilian foods? Are there any other healthy Brazilian dishes you'd add to this list? Can you come up with your own healthy spin on a classic Brazilian food? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
