Vinagrete facts for kids
Vinagrete (say "vee-nah-GRET-ee") is a popular and tasty sauce from Brazil. It's also sometimes called molho campanha (say "MOH-lyoo cam-PAH-nya"). This fresh condiment is made from simple ingredients like chopped tomatoes, onions, olive oil, and vinegar. It often includes herbs like parsley or sweet peppers, and a little salt.
Brazilians love to eat Vinagrete with many different foods. It's perfect with salads, grilled meats, and traditional dishes like feijoada (a hearty bean stew) and pastel (a fried pastry). It also tastes great with roasted chicken!
Vinagrete is a bit like other fresh, chopped sauces you might find in Latin America. For example, it shares some ingredients with pebre from Chile and pico de gallo from Mexico. These sauces are all about fresh, simple flavors that add a zing to your meal.
What is Vinagrete Made Of?
Vinagrete is known for its fresh and simple ingredients. It's usually served raw, meaning the ingredients are not cooked.
- Tomatoes: These are chopped into small pieces.
- Onions: Also finely chopped, adding a sharp, fresh taste.
- Olive Oil: This helps to bring all the flavors together.
- Vinegar: Adds a tangy, slightly sour kick.
- Herbs or Peppers: You might find parsley (often part of a mix called cheiro-verde) or sweet bell peppers.
- Salt: To season and enhance the flavors.
Sometimes, people add other spices or herbs to make their Vinagrete unique!
Where is Vinagrete Eaten?
While Vinagrete is a Brazilian specialty, similar fresh sauces are enjoyed in other countries too.
Vinagrete in Brazil
In Brazil, Vinagrete is a staple at barbecues and family meals. The name molho campanha comes from a region in Rio Grande do Sul, a state in southern Brazil. This area is known for its vast plains and gaúchos (Brazilian cowboys). The sauce is always made with finely chopped, raw ingredients and includes vinegar, olive oil, salt, and cheiro-verde (a mix of parsley and Welsh onions).
