Queijada

Queijadas aus Vila Franca do Campo, Azoren 2016 03

Queijada

A traditional Queijada

Queijada is a traditional Portuguese pastry originating from the region of Sintra, a town near Lisbon. These small, sweet pastries are made primarily from cheese, sugar, eggs, and flour. They are known for their unique texture, which is both creamy and slightly chewy, and their distinctive flavor, which combines the richness of cheese with the sweetness of sugar.

History

The history of Queijada dates back to the medieval period, where it was originally made by nuns in convents. Over time, the recipe spread throughout Portugal and became a popular treat among the general population. The town of Sintra is particularly famous for its Queijadas, and many local bakeries have their own secret recipes that have been passed down through generations.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of Queijada include:

• Cheese (traditionally fresh cheese or ricotta)
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Flour
• Cinnamon (optional)

Preparation

The preparation of Queijada involves mixing the cheese, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Flour is then added to create a thick batter. This mixture is poured into small pastry shells and baked until golden brown. The result is a pastry with a slightly crispy exterior and a soft, creamy interior.

Variations

While the traditional Queijada is made with cheese, there are several variations of this pastry that incorporate different ingredients. Some popular variations include:

• Queijada de Leite (made with milk)
• Queijada de Amêndoa (made with almonds)
• Queijada de Cenoura (made with carrots)

Cultural Significance

Queijadas are an important part of Portuguese culinary heritage and are often enjoyed during festivals, holidays, and special occasions. They are also a popular souvenir for tourists visiting Sintra.

Related Pages

• Portuguese cuisine
• Sintra
• Pastry
• Cheese
• Eggs
• Flour

See Also

• Pastel de nata
• Bolo de arroz
• Travesseiro (pastry)