Farofa Recipe (Brazilian Toasted Cassava Flour Side Dish)
Farofa is a classic Brazilian side dish made from toasted cassava (manioc) flour, sautéed with butter, onions, and optional add-ins like eggs, bacon, or vegetables. This authentic Brazilian farofa recipe is quick, versatile, and the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats and stews.
Why You’ll Love This Farofa Recipe
- Authentic Brazilian flavor 🇧🇷
- Ready in under 15 minutes
- Naturally gluten-free
- Customizable with meats or vegetables
What Is Farofa?
Farofa is a traditional Brazilian side dish made by toasting cassava flour in fat until golden and fragrant. It’s commonly served with churrasco, feijoada, roasted chicken, and seafood.
Ingredients
Basic Farofa
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups cassava flour (farinha de mandioca)
- Salt to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ¼ cup cooked bacon, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley or green onions
How to Make Farofa (Step-by-Step)
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and lightly golden. Add garlic if using.
2. Add the Cassava Flour
Reduce heat to low. Slowly add cassava flour, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Toast Until Golden
Cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring continuously, until the farofa is lightly toasted and aromatic. Season with salt.
4. Add Optional Ingredients
Stir in eggs, bacon, or herbs if desired. Cook until eggs are set and evenly distributed.
Farofa Texture Tip
Farofa should be crumbly and dry, not mushy. Keep heat low and stir constantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve farofa with:
- Feijoada (Brazilian black bean stew)
- Grilled steak or chicken
- Roasted vegetables
- Barbecue dishes
Storage Tips
- Room temperature: up to 1 day
- Refrigerator: up to 4 days
- Reheat gently in a skillet to restore texture
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is farofa gluten-free?
Yes. Traditional farofa is made with cassava flour and is naturally gluten-free.
What does farofa taste like?
Farofa is savory, buttery, and slightly nutty with a crunchy texture.
Can I make farofa vegan?
Absolutely. Use olive oil or plant-based butter and skip animal add-ins.
Can I substitute cassava flour?
Cassava flour is essential for authentic farofa. Cornmeal or breadcrumbs will change the flavor and texture.
Popular Farofa Variations
- Egg Farofa – soft scrambled eggs mixed in
- Bacon Farofa – smoky and savory
- Banana Farofa – sweet-savory Brazilian style
- Vegetable Farofa – carrots, peas, and peppers
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
- Coxinha (Brazilian Chicken Croquettes)
- Brigadeiro (Brazilian Chocolate Truffles)
- Pão de Queijo (Brazilian Cheese Bread)
- Feijoada (Brazilian Black Bean Stew)
- Churrasco Side Dishes

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