Brazilian recipe
Traditional Brazilian Dried Meat and Rice (Arroz à Carreteiro)
A hearty, rustic Brazilian one-pot rice dish featuring savory sun-dried beef and fresh herbs—perfect for a satisfying, fuss-free family dinner.
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Ingredients
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
5 cups boiling water
800 g charque (sun-dried salted beef), cubed and pre-soaked to remove excess salt
Fresh green herbs to taste, such as finely chopped parsley and spring onions
2 cups white rice, rinsed and drained
1 onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
5 cups boiling water
800 g charque (sun-dried salted beef), cubed and pre-soaked to remove excess salt
Fresh green herbs to taste, such as finely chopped parsley and spring onions
2 cups white rice, rinsed and drained
Where to find ingredients
The star ingredient, charque (sun-dried salted beef), is best sourced from specialty butchers or the 'meat and deli' section of larger supermarkets that stock international goods; if unavailable, salt-cured beef or high-quality biltong (though less traditional) can serve as a substitute. For the aromatics and fresh herbs like spring onions and parsley, any local market or grocery store will have them in the fresh produce aisle. Use standard long-grain white rice available in all local shops.
Preparation method
- Soak the charque in fresh water for several hours, changing the water frequently until the desired salt level is reached
- Heat the lard or vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat
- Sauté the diced onion until translucent, then add the garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden
- Stir in the prepared charque and fry until the pieces are nicely browned and aromatic
- Add the rice to the pot and toast it with the meat for a few minutes to coat every grain in flavor
- Pour the boiling water over the rice and beef mixture
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed
- Just before serving, sprinkle generously with the freshly chopped herbs for a bright, fresh finish
Observations
Arroz à carreteiro is a cherished Brazilian classic, rooted in the nomadic lifestyle of historic cattle drovers. This no-fuss, one-pot dish celebrates the intense, umami-rich flavor of charque (sun-dried salted beef), perfectly balanced by aromatics and a vibrant finish of fresh green herbs. It is the ultimate comfort food for anyone looking for a wholesome, filling meal that is as easy to whip up as it is delicious.
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