Wagoners Rice – Arroz de Carreteiro

Wagoners Rice (Arroz de Carreteiro) – Authentic Southern Cuisine 

Arroz de carreteiro, or “wagoner’s rice,” is a quintessential Brazilian dish that encapsulates the nation’s rich culinary heritage. Originating from the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul, this hearty meal was initially crafted by carreteiros—wagon drivers who traversed vast distances transporting goods across Brazil. Faced with long journeys and limited resources, these travelers relied on durable ingredients like charque (sun-dried, salted beef) and rice, cooking them together in iron pots over open fires to create a nourishing and practical dish. blog.amigofoods.com+6Wikipedia+6Wikipedia+6

Cultural Significance

Beyond its sustenance, arroz de carreteiro holds a special place in Brazilian culture. It symbolizes the resilience and ingenuity of the carreteiros, reflecting a time when meals had to be both portable and preservable. Today, the dish is celebrated nationwide, often prepared during family gatherings and festive occasions, serving as a delicious reminder of Brazil’s historical journey and the diverse influences that have shaped its cuisine.

Key Ingredients

While variations exist, a traditional arroz de carreteiro typically includes:

• Charque (sun-dried, salted beef) or carne de sol

• Rice (preferably long-grain)

• Onions and garlic

• Tomatoes

• Parsley or green onions

• Optional additions like linguiça (Brazilian sausage), bacon, or leftover churrasco meatsFacebook+35Wikipedia+35flavorsofbrazil.blogspot.com+35flavorsofbrazil.blogspot.com+2texasdebrazil.com+2How I Cook+2Food Network+1How I Cook+1

The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability; it’s often prepared using available meats and vegetables, making it both economical and flavorful.The Six Figure Dish

What to Expect from a Good Arroz de Carreteiro

A well-prepared arroz de carreteiro offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The rice should be tender yet firm, infused with the savory essence of the meats and the aromatic blend of garlic and onions. The dish should be moist but not overly wet, with each grain of rice distinct and coated in the rich flavors of the ingredients. Garnishing with fresh parsley or green onions adds a touch of freshness, balancing the dish’s hearty profile.Wikipedia+2Tara’s Multicultural Table+2Sabor Brasil+2

Where to Enjoy Arroz de Carreteiro in Brazil

For those seeking to experience authentic arroz de carreteiro, several restaurants across Brazil are renowned for their exceptional renditions of the dish:

• Natelha Cupim Restaurante (São Paulo)
  Known for serving traditional Brazilian dishes, including a flavorful arroz de carreteiro prepared with high-quality meats.
  Website: natelhacupimrestaurante.com.br

• Arroz Carreteiro (Brasília)
  A dedicated establishment offering a variety of rice-based dishes, with their namesake dish receiving high praise from patrons.
  TripadvisorTara’s Multicultural Table+3Tripadvisor+3texasdebrazil.com+3

• Comida a Quilo Restaurants (Various Locations)
  These buffet-style restaurants allow diners to sample a range of Brazilian dishes, often featuring arroz de carreteiro as a staple option.
  Cook in Rio cooking class

Exploring these establishments offers not only a taste of arroz de carreteiro but also an immersion into Brazil’s rich culinary landscape.

Ingredients

List

• 500g cooked white rice
• 200g dried beef (carne seca), shredded
• 100g bacon, diced
• 2 onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Preparation Details

• Soak dried beef in water for 24 hours, changing water several times.
• boil it till soft
• Shred dried beef.

Preparation Steps

1. Fry bacon in a large pan until crispy.
2. Add onions and garlic and sauté until golden.
3. Add shredded dried beef and cook for a few minutes.
4. Add tomatoes and green bell pepper, cook until softened.
5. Add cooked rice and mix well.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips and Tricks

• Use leftover cooked rice for a quicker preparation.
• Add a touch of chili for extra flavor.

Allergens and Dietary Information

• Contains beef.
• Not gluten-free.
• Not dairy-free.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fats: 20g
• Proteins: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

Servings

4 servings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 24 hours (soaking) + 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

Serve arroz de carreteiro as a main dish or with a simple salad.

Variations

Add other meats like sausage or chicken.