One of my favorite aspects of Brazil is the food culture. There are a unique variety of dishes in Brazil, influenced by the country’s Indigenous, African, and Portuguese history. Depending on what state you are in, there are specialty dishes, as well as foods that are popular throughout the country. Comida real (real food in the literal translation) is considered the top food choice here. Many locals do not consider it a real meal if it does not include the classic rice, beans, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and some sort of meat.
These "real meals" are often known as the prato feito and you can find these at most classic Brazilian restaurants here.
My favorite specialty dish is Moqueca. Most popular in the Northeast, Moqueca is a flavorful seafood or fish stew often served fresh in cities close to water sources. The dish is dependent on fresh fish, so it is served in cities near the ocean or key fishing rivers. Moqueca typically includes shrimp, cod, or other fresh fish.
Brazilian cuisine also does snacks very well, including the standard pastel (a fried pastry filled with meat or cheese) that is readily available at most restaurants and stands.
