Easy Recipes from Brazil

Tag: budget friendly recipes

  • Air-Fryer–Free Potato Chips in the Microwave

    Air-Fryer–Free Potato Chips in the Microwave

    These no-fry potato chips prove that you can enjoy a crispy, flavorful snack with practicality and a lighter approach. Made in the microwave, they turn out surprisingly crunchy and are ready in just a few minutes.

    This recipe is perfect for anyone craving potato chips without relying on store-bought versions full of preservatives. With just a few ingredients and a simple method, you can make a delicious homemade snack any time of day.

    In addition to being budget-friendly, these microwave potato chips allow you to control the salt and customize the seasoning to your taste, making them even more appealing.

    Ingredients

    • 3 small potatoes
    • Water (for soaking)
    • Salt, to taste
    • Olive oil (optional)

    Possible substitutions:

    • Potatoes can be used with the skin on, as long as they are well washed.
    • Olive oil can be replaced with another vegetable oil or omitted entirely.

    Instructions

    1. Peel the potatoes, or leave the skin on if preferred.
    2. Slice the potatoes into very thin slices using a peeler, mandoline, grater, or knife.
    3. Place the slices in a colander, rinse, and soak for 15 minutes.
    4. Drain well and dry completely using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
    5. Arrange the slices on a microwave-safe plate, side by side, without overlapping.
    6. Microwave for 3 minutes, remove, and flip the slices.
    7. Return to the microwave for another 2 minutes, watching closely since cooking time may vary by appliance.
    8. Repeat the process until all the potatoes are cooked.
    9. Season with salt to taste and serve.

    Chef’s Tips / Variations

    • Lightly brush the plate with olive oil to reduce sticking.
    • Add paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs after cooking.
    • Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for extra flavor.
    • The thinner the slices, the crispier the chips.

    Prep Time, Yield, and Difficulty

    • Total time: About 30 minutes
    • Yield: 2 servings
    • Difficulty: Easy

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    1. Can I make these potato chips without oil?
    Yes. The recipe works without oil, though the chips may stick slightly to the plate.

    2. Can I season the potatoes before microwaving?
    Yes, especially with salt. Other seasonings are best added after cooking.

    3. Why do the potatoes need to soak?
    Soaking removes excess starch, helping the chips become crispier.

    Conclusion

    These no-fry microwave potato chips are perfect for anyone looking for convenience without sacrificing flavor. Try them at home, customize the seasonings, and enjoy a simple, delicious snack.

    If you make this recipe, leave a comment sharing how it turned out, save it for later, or share it with fellow potato chip lovers.

  • Homemade Onion Soup Mix – Budget-Friendly and Preservative-Free

    Homemade Onion Soup Mix – Budget-Friendly and Preservative-Free

    Homemade onion soup mix is one of those staple recipes that can completely transform your cooking. Besides replacing the famous store-bought packet, this version delivers more flavor, better value, and full control over the ingredients.

    This homemade version yields a generous amount, contains no preservatives, and has that rich aroma and savory taste that works perfectly with meats, sauces, meatballs, and stews. Best of all, it’s easy to make using simple pantry ingredients.

    If you value convenience without sacrificing flavor, this homemade onion soup mix will quickly become a must-have in your kitchen.

    Ingredients

    • 3 medium onions, finely chopped (or grated, if preferred)
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
      • Substitution: whole wheat flour can be used for a more rustic version
    • 1 cup cornstarch
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • A pinch of sweet paprika
    • Black pepper to taste
    • Olive oil (enough for sautéing)

    Instructions

    1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
    2. Add the chopped onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, until they begin to dry out and brown evenly.
    3. Add the salt and sugar during the sautéing process to help caramelize the onions.
    4. Once the onions are lightly golden, add the paprika and stir well.
    5. Add the all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
    6. Stir constantly to cook the flours and prevent burning.
    7. Continue stirring for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the raw flour smell disappears and the aroma becomes rich and savory.
    8. Adjust the black pepper, turn off the heat, and let the mixture cool completely.
    9. Store in an airtight container.

    Chef’s Tips / Variations

    • Constant stirring is essential to prevent burning and ensure even flavor.
    • For a deeper flavor, allow the onions to caramelize well without letting them get too dark.
    • This recipe yields the equivalent of 4 to 5 store-bought packets.
    • Perfect for ground beef, sauces, meatballs, stews, and even savory crackers.
    • For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with additional cornstarch.

    Prep Time, Yield, and Difficulty

    • Total time: approximately 20 minutes
    • Yield: about 4 to 5 portions equivalent to commercial onion soup mix
    • Difficulty level: easy

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    1. Can I completely replace store-bought onion soup mix with this homemade version?
    Yes. It can be used the same way in any recipe.

    2. Should it be stored in the refrigerator?
    Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

    3. Can I freeze homemade onion soup mix?
    Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the flours.

    Conclusion

    Once you try this homemade onion soup mix, you’ll hardly want to go back to the store-bought version. It’s more affordable, more flavorful, and incredibly versatile.

    If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a comment sharing how you used it, save it for later, or share it with someone who loves to cook.

  • Easy Juicy Onion Steak with Bell Peppers – Simple and Delicious Homemade Recipe

    Easy Juicy Onion Steak with Bell Peppers – Simple and Delicious Homemade Recipe

    Introduction

    Juicy onion steak with bell peppers is a classic Brazilian comfort food that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for home cooks and beginners, this easy recipe teaches you simple techniques to keep the steak tender, juicy, and full of flavor—ideal for a quick lunch or satisfying dinner.

    Ingredients

    • 4 beef steaks (sirloin preferred)
      (Top round or bottom round can be used depending on your budget)
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • Salt to taste
    • Black pepper to taste
    • 1 large onion, sliced
    • ½ red bell pepper, sliced
    • ½ yellow bell pepper, sliced
    • Olive oil, for drizzling
    • 1 tablespoon butter

    How to Make Juicy Onion Steak with Bell Peppers

    1. Season the steaks with garlic, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
    2. Let the meat rest for a few minutes to absorb the seasoning.
    3. Heat a regular skillet over high heat until very hot.
    4. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
    5. Place up to two steaks in the skillet without overcrowding.
    6. Sear for about 1 minute per side, flipping only once.
    7. Remove the steaks and set aside. Repeat with the remaining meat.
    8. In the same skillet, add the butter, sliced onions, and bell peppers.
    9. Sauté quickly, scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
    10. Adjust salt if needed.
    11. Serve the steaks topped with the sautéed onions and bell peppers.

    Tips for the Best Juicy Onion Steak with Bell Peppers

    • Always cook the steak over high heat to ensure proper searing.
    • Avoid flipping the meat repeatedly, as this releases juices and dries it out.
    • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
    • For a lighter version, replace the butter with olive oil only.
    • You can make this recipe using only onions or only bell peppers if preferred.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Serve with white rice and beans for a traditional Brazilian meal.
    • Pair with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for extra comfort.
    • Add a simple green salad for a balanced lunch or dinner.
    • Ideal for quick weekday meals or casual family dinners.

    Storage and Reheating

    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    • Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying out the steak.
    • Avoid microwaving for long periods, as this can make the meat tough.

    Conclusion

    This juicy onion steak with bell peppers proves that simple ingredients and the right technique can create an incredibly satisfying meal. Quick, budget-friendly, and full of flavor, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Try it today and enjoy a classic homemade dish with confidence.

  • Easy Creamy Chicken Fricassée – Simple and Delicious Homemade Recipe

    Easy Creamy Chicken Fricassée – Simple and Delicious Homemade Recipe

    Introduction

    Creamy chicken fricassée is a classic comfort dish that proves you don’t need complicated steps or expensive ingredients to cook something truly delicious. Perfect for beginners and busy home cooks, this recipe transforms leftover chicken into a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal that works just as well for everyday lunches as it does for family dinners.

    Ingredients

    • 400 g (14 oz) cooked, shredded chicken
    • 200 to 250 ml (¾ to 1 cup) chicken cooking broth
      • Substitution: water if broth is unavailable
    • 2 cans corn
    • 3 tomatoes, chopped
    • ½ onion, chopped
    • 2 large garlic cloves, chopped
    • ½ small carton heavy cream
    • 1 container creamy cheese spread (requeijão-style or cream cheese)
    • Salt, to taste
    • Black pepper, to taste
    • Green onions or fresh herbs, to taste
    • Olive oil, for sautéing
    • Shredded or sliced cheese, for topping
    • Shoestring potatoes, to taste

    How to Make Creamy Chicken Fricassée

    1. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
    2. Sauté the chopped onion until lightly golden.
    3. Add the garlic and sauté briefly, stirring to avoid burning.
    4. Add the chopped tomatoes, season lightly with salt, and cook until they break down into a sauce.
    5. In a blender, blend the corn with the chicken broth until creamy. Adjust the texture to your preference.
    6. Add the shredded chicken to the pan and mix well with the tomato base.
    7. Pour in the blended corn cream, heavy cream, and creamy cheese spread.
    8. Season with salt and black pepper. Lower the heat and stir until the mixture becomes very creamy.
    9. Finish with green onions or fresh herbs and turn off the heat.
    10. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with cheese and shoestring potatoes.
    11. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10 to 15 minutes, just until the top is lightly golden.

    Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Fricassée

    • Use chicken cooking broth whenever possible for deeper flavor.
    • Blend the corn fully for a smooth cream or pulse lightly for more texture.
    • Avoid high heat after adding dairy to prevent curdling.
    • For a thicker fricassée, let the cream cook a few extra minutes on the stove.
    • For a meatless version, replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables or hearts of palm.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Serve with fluffy white rice for a classic and comforting meal.
    • Pair with a simple green salad to balance the creaminess.
    • Ideal for weekday lunches, family dinners, or casual gatherings.

    Storage and Reheating

    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    • Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring to restore creaminess.
    • Freeze without the shoestring potatoes for up to 2 months. Add them fresh when serving.

    Conclusion

    This easy creamy chicken fricassée is proof that simple cooking can still deliver incredible flavor. With everyday ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Try it at home, save it for later, and share it with anyone who enjoys practical, comforting homemade food.