Brazilian recipe
Hearty and Traditional Charque Rice (Arroz à carreteiro)
A straightforward and comforting recipe for classic charque rice, featuring perfectly seasoned dried beef and fresh herbs, perfect for a filling, soul-warming meal.
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Ingredients
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
5 cups boiling water
800 g charque, cut into small cubes and desalted
Fresh green herbs (parsley and spring onion), finely chopped
2 cups white rice, rinsed and drained
1 onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
5 cups boiling water
800 g charque, cut into small cubes and desalted
Fresh green herbs (parsley and spring onion), finely chopped
2 cups white rice, rinsed and drained
Where to find ingredients
You can source your ingredients at local municipal markets or well-stocked supermarkets in Suva or Nadi. For the charque, which is a traditional salted, sun-dried beef, you may need to visit a local butcher shop; if unavailable, a high-quality salted corned beef can serve as a substitute for the texture, though the flavor profile of the original Brazilian charque is unique.
Preparation method
- Soak the charque in water for several hours, changing the water multiple times to remove excess salt.
- Heat the lard or vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic and cook until golden.
- Add the desalted charque to the pot and sear until well-browned and aromatic.
- Stir in the rice, tossing thoroughly to coat the grains and toast them lightly with the meat.
- Pour the boiling water carefully over the rice and meat mixture.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Serve immediately, generously garnished with fresh chopped green herbs for a crisp, bright finish.
Observations
Arroz à carreteiro is a classic dish from Brazil with deep roots in the historical expeditions of traditional wagon drivers. Its preparation is refreshingly simple, focusing on the bold, savory character of the charque, combined with humble pantry staples and a bright finish of fresh green herbs. It is the ideal choice for those looking for a wholesome, no-fuss meal that packs a punch of authentic flavor.
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