Dairy-Free Traditional Brazilian Cuscuz

Discover the rich simplicity of Dairy-Free Traditional Brazilian Cuscuz, a beloved Brazilian comfort food that’s naturally gluten-free and plant-based. Made with just three ingredients—flaked pre-cooked cornmeal (known as "flocão de milho"), water, and a pinch of salt—this classic dish is quick to prepare, steaming to fluffy perfection in just 10 minutes. Traditionally crafted using a "cuscuzeira" (a special Brazilian steamer), it’s easily adaptable with common kitchen tools for global home cooks. Perfect as a versatile side dish or a light meal, this cuscuz can be paired with dairy-free toppings like coconut oil, plant-based butter, or sweet preserves for endless flavor possibilities. Simple, wholesome, and steeped in tradition, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of authentic Brazilian cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups cornmeal (flaked, pre-cooked corn flour – fine, called 'flocão de milho' in Portuguese)
• 1 cup water
• 0.5 teaspoons salt

Directions

Step 1

1. In a mixing bowl, add the cornmeal and salt. Stir to evenly distribute the salt.

Step 2

2. Gradually add the water to the cornmeal while mixing with your hands or a spoon. Mix until the cornmeal is moistened but not soggy. The texture should resemble wet sand.

Step 3

3. Let the moistened cornmeal rest for 5 minutes to hydrate and soften.

Step 4

4. While the cornmeal is resting, prepare your cuscuzeira (a traditional Brazilian cuscuz steamer). If you don't have one, you can use a standard steamer or improvise with a pot and a metal strainer that fits snugly inside.

Step 5

5. Fill the bottom pot with about 1-1.5 inches of water and bring it to a boil over medium heat.

Step 6

6. Once the water boils, transfer the moist cornmeal mixture to the upper section of the cuscuzeira or your chosen steamer. Spread it evenly, but do not press it down too firmly; keep the mixture light and fluffy to ensure steam passes through.

Step 7

7. Cover the steamer or pot with a lid and let the cuscuz steam for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cuscuz is firm and easily separates from the sides of the steamer.

Step 8

8. Carefully remove the cuscuz from the steamer and transfer it to a serving plate. Use a fork to fluff the texture if needed.

Step 9

9. Serve hot as is, or pair it with dairy-free sides like coconut oil, plant-based butter, sautéed vegetables, or fruit preserves.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(543g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1110

Total Fat 4.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 0.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1202.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 237g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.7g	0%
Total Sugars 1.8g
Protein 21g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 20.4mg	0%
Iron 6.3mg	0%
Potassium 426mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 3.8%

Protein: 7.8%

Carbs: 88.4%