Brazilian Lemonade
Brazilian lemonade is a quick, refreshing summer drink made by blending limes with ice water and sweeteners, usually sweetened condensed milk or a combination of sugar and sweetened condensed milk. In my home country of Brazil, it’s called limonada suíça (Swiss lemonade in Portuguese), although it’s actually very Brazilian. Adding to the confusion, it would technically be considered a limeade in the United States since it’s made with limes, not lemons. Why the disconnect? In Brazil, both lemons and limes are called limão, with the distinction between them based loosely on geography: Yellow lemons are called “Sicilian lemons” (limão siciliano), while green limes are called “Tahitian lemons” (limão taiti). Both are considered to yield lemonade (limonada). As for the term “Swiss,” it’s probably because most versions use sweetened condensed milk, a product associated with the Swiss company Nestlé. But while the name may be complicated, making this delicious warm-weather drink is super-easy, no simple syrup required.
Pudim de Panetone
Unlike the typically chunky American bread pudding, this Brazilian panettone bread pudding is smooth and creamy, resembling a caramel flan (although denser). It is garnished with candied fruits, making it a perfect dessert for Christmas. Brazilian bread pudding is usually made with stale French bread and mixed in a blender. Due to the deep influence of Italian immigrants on Southern Brazilian cuisine, panettone, a sweet Italian bread, became a staple on Brazilian tables at Christmastime; panettone can either be served as is, or used to make desserts such as this one. It is a feast for the eyes!
