The Basics: Rice and Beans.

Yep,that's what Brazilians eat every day. Seriously,every single day.But  rice and beans are accompaniment  to the main dish which varies between meat,chicken, fish or pork.

So let's start with the basic of the basics: Rice. 

Brazilians like their rice "free". Meaning,flufly,not stuck together like glue and not too oily.The garlic adds a  delicious flavor to it and the oil is just enough not to let the rice stick to the pan,not to add flavor.For that reason, Canola oil is the best choice.
Contrary to the  picture above,rice is never served alone in Brazil. It is most of the time accompanied by beans or at least a juicy main dish where the sauce is served right on top of the rice. Steak,chicken or fish with tomato sauce would go perfectly on top of the rice.

For the Rice, you'll need:

• 2 cups of long grain white rice (I like the brand Canilla)
• 1 tsp. minced garlic 
• 2 tsp  canola oil 
• About 4 cups boiling water
• salt to taste

Bring water to boil in a kettle.While water is boiling(or close to), heat oil in another pan.Salte' garlic until golden.Add rice and stir until grains achieve a dull color (about five min.)Add salt. Stir. Add boiling water until rice is completely covered.Let it simmer to reduce water on medium heat. When water has almost (but not completely )dried out, cover and leave for another 5 min.Turn off heat and leave it covered until time to serve.


Short Cut :

Get yourself a rice steamer! Add rice and cold water according to the steamer's instructions(usually the same amount of rice and water).Add oil ,salt and minced garlic.Cover and turn rice cooker on.Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.