The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Celebrate the Olympics with Brazilian dinner
Serve up some champion dinners, Rio style. ‘Carnival!’ co-author Lizzy Barber tells Gemma Dunn the secrets to authentic Brazilian party fare
With all eyes on Rio this summer, as the 2016 Olympics limber up, it’s little wonder there’s such an appetite for all things Brazilian right now.
And if you’re in the mood to jazz up dinnertime in celebration of the Games, look no further than Carnival! – the first “definitive guide to throwing an authentic Brasilian street party” – where you’ll find all the right ingredients to dish up some Rio-ready fare.
“Not only will it give you a feel of what Team GB are eating on the ground, but the tastes and flavours will whisk you away and have you dreaming of Brazilian beach and street parties,” promises co-author Lizzy Barber, who penned the title with her brother Jamie Barber and Rio-born David Ponte.
The colourful little book covers everything from vibrant, Brazilian finger food and BBQ recipes, to refreshing cocktails – Caipirinha being the tipple of choice – and even features tips on dancing the Samba.
And Lizzy and her cowriters certainly know a thing or two about local customs, doubling up as the restaurateur team behind the popular and ever-expanding UK chain of Cabana Brasilian Barbecue restaurants.
“No Brazilian party would be complete without some Samba tunes,” she says.
“You’ll see Brazilians breaking out these moves, impromptu, whenever the mood takes them.
“Cachaca (Brazil’s national, rumlike spirit) is vital for recreating the Rio vibes,” she adds.
“Brazilians add it to anything – rumour has it some even run their cars on it – and it’s equally good in a cocktail or a marinade.” But the most vital ingredient of all? “It’s got to be meat!” Lizzy quips. “Brazilians are famous for their steaks, especially Picanha (cap of rump), which is their favourite cut.
“We marinate ours in chilli and cumin, or for the ultimate Cabana flavour, marinate chicken in our signature Spicy Malagueta sauce.
“So whether you’re planning a barbecue in the garden or are rained in watching all the Olympic action on TV,” she finishes, “you can make like a Carioca – that’s a Rio local – and imagine you’re on Copacabana Beach.”