Authentic Brazilian Grilled Cheese Skewers (Espetinhos de Queijo de Coalho) Easy Recipe

Discover the irresistible taste of Brazil with these mouthwatering Grilled Cheese Skewers, known locally as Espetinhos de Queijo de Coalho. This popular street food snack is now at your fingertips, ready to bring a touch of South American flair to your next barbecue or gathering.

Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly grilled cheese that’s crispy and golden on the outside, yet delightfully gooey on the inside. That’s the magic of queijo de coalho, a unique Brazilian cheese that holds its shape even as it softens under the heat of the grill. The result? An addictive treat that’s bound to become your new favorite grilled cheese experience.

While traditionally enjoyed as street food in Brazil, these skewers are surprisingly easy to recreate at home. Whether you’re lucky enough to find authentic queijo de coalho or opt for readily available alternatives like halloumi or bread cheese, you’re in for a treat. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility – it’s a blank canvas for your favorite flavors.

Once off the grill, customize your skewers to your heart’s content. A sprinkle of dried oregano for a touch of herb-infused warmth, a drizzle of garlicky olive oil for extra depth, or a dollop of creamy aioli for richness – the choice is yours. In Brazil, a similar sauce called molho de alho is often used, adding an extra layer of authentic flavor.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a unique appetizer, or simply craving a taste of Brazil, these Grilled Brazilian Cheese Skewers are sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Brazil!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces (340g) skewered Brazilian queijo de coalho, separated into individual sticks (see note)
• Dried oregano, extra-virgin olive oil mixed with finely minced garlic, and/or aioli, for serving (optional)

Directions

1. Begin by lighting one chimney full of charcoal. Once all the charcoal is lit and covered with gray ash, spread the coals evenly over the coal grate. If you’re using a gas grill, set the burners to high heat. Place the cooking grate, cover the grill, and allow it to preheat for 5 minutes. Clean and oil the grilling grate thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Carefully arrange your cheese skewers on the grate directly over the hot coals. Grill until the first side turns a beautiful golden brown, which should take about 3 minutes. Keep in mind that timing may vary depending on your grill’s heat intensity and the distance between the skewers and the heat source. Resist the urge to move the skewers too soon to prevent sticking and tearing. If they do stick, gently slide a thin metal spatula between the grill grates and carefully lift from underneath to free them.
3. Once the first side is done, turn the skewers and repeat the process on the opposite side. Keep a close eye on them to achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior while maintaining the cheese’s shape. Remember to move the skewers around occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent the cheese from sinking too far between the grill grates.
4. Serve your Grilled Brazilian Cheese Skewers immediately while they’re still hot and at their gooey best. This is the moment to get creative with your toppings! Sprinkle with dried oregano for a herby kick, drizzle with your prepared olive oil and garlic mixture for an extra flavor punch, or serve alongside a creamy aioli for dipping. Let your guests customize their skewers to their liking for a truly interactive and delicious experience.

Recipe Notes

If you’re unable to find packaged queijo de coalho skewers, don’t worry! You can often find block queijo de coalho online or at specialty stores. Simply cut the block cheese into 1- by 5-inch lengths and carefully spear each piece with a small bamboo skewer. Follow the recipe as written from there. In case queijo de coalho proves elusive, fear not – halloumi or bread cheese make excellent substitutes that will still deliver that satisfying grilled cheese experience.