Authentic Brazilian Farofa with Bacon: A Crunchy, Savory Side Dish You’ll Crave
Looking for a crunchy and savory side dish that’s full of flavor and Brazilian flair? This farofa with bacon recipe is just what you need. Farofa is a beloved Brazilian staple made with toasted cassava flour and often combined with ingredients like bacon, onions, and herbs for an irresistibly smoky, buttery crunch.
In this post, we’ll show you how to make authentic Brazilian farofa from scratch. Whether you’re serving it alongside feijoada, grilled meats, or simply enjoying it on its own, this dish adds texture, richness, and a touch of tradition to any meal.
What Is Farofa?
Farofa is a traditional Brazilian side dish made by toasting cassava flour with fat—typically butter or bacon drippings—and layering in flavorful ingredients like onions, garlic, and meats. It’s eaten across Brazil with a wide range of meals and is especially loved for its unique texture and ability to soak up and complement bold flavors.
It may look simple, but farofa is deeply woven into Brazilian food culture. It’s found on tables during weekday lunches, weekend churrascos (BBQs), and festive holiday meals. Think of it like Brazil’s answer to breadcrumbs or stuffing—but more flavorful and versatile.
Why You’ll Love This Farofa Recipe
Even if you’ve never cooked Brazilian food before, this farofa recipe is a perfect place to start. Here’s why:
-
Quick & easy – Ready in under 20 minutes
-
Bold, satisfying flavor – Thanks to crispy bacon, onions, and garlic
-
Incredibly versatile – Customize it with herbs, eggs, banana, or even raisins
-
Pairs with everything – From feijoada to grilled steak or even a fried egg
Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—it’s just that addictive.
Tips & Variations
-
No bacon? Try smoked sausage or go vegetarian with mushrooms and smoked paprika.
-
Sweeter side? Add caramelized banana slices or raisins for a sweet-savory twist.
-
Make it fancy: Add toasted nuts, chopped olives, or hard-boiled eggs.
Instructions:
Step 1: Dice and Cook the Bacon
Start by dicing the bacon into small to medium-sized pieces. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until golden and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving all the rendered fat in the pan.
Step 2: Add Butter and Aromatics
Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic. Then, add the butter to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat and set it over medium to low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the diced onion and sauté for 3–5 minutes, until soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—being careful not to let it brown.
Step 3: Add Cassava Flour
Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir it in. Lower the heat and gradually add cassava flour, stirring constantly, until it toasts to a golden brown and absorbs the flavors (about 3-5 minutes).
Step 4: Season & Garnish
Season with salt. Stir in any optional ingredients like chopped parsley, cilantro or scallions.
Serve warm as a side dish.
Farofa is so much more than a side—it’s a reflection of Brazil’s rich culinary heritage and a flavorful, flexible way to enhance almost any meal. Whether you’re new to Brazilian food or rediscovering a classic, this farofa with bacon recipe is one that deserves a spot in your kitchen.
Try it once, and you’ll see why Brazilians serve it with just about everything—and why you might want to start doing the same.
Have you tried making farofa? Share your experience in the comments below!
