Have you ever tried Vinagrete? It's a delightful Brazilian condiment that can infuse your meals with a burst of flavor. Made with fresh ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a blend of oil and vinegar, this recipe for Brazilian vinagrete is easy to follow and can be customized to your preferences. You can enjoy Vinagrete as a flavorful topping for grilled meats and seafood or as a way to enhance rice and beans.
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What is Vinagrete?
Vinagrete, also known as Molho Vinagrete or Molho Apimentado, is a Brazilian condiment similar to Pico de Gallo, made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It's known for its fresh, tangy flavor and is commonly used as a topping for grilled meats, especially at barbecues (churrascos). It's also a popular topping for various dishes, including rice and beans, and can be used as a salad dressing.
Unlike Pico de Gallo, which often includes hot peppers, Vinagrete usually does not have a spicy element, though some variations might include mild peppers for an extra zing. Its vibrant flavor profile makes it a versatile condiment that enhances the taste of many dishes.
Highlights Of Our Vinagrete Recipe:
- Flavor: Our recipe blends the rich taste of ripe tomatoes with the bold essence of garlic, the smooth richness of extra virgin olive oil, the zing of red vinegar, the sharpness of onions, and the vibrant, citrusy burst of cilantro.
- Texture: It offers a delightful interplay of textures, where the tomatoes blend with the crunch of fresh onions. The inclusion of cilantro adds a layer of crispness, elevating the overall taste.
- Method: Preparing it is simple. Start by finely chopping the fresh ingredients, then mix them with seasonings. Finally, let it chill. Chilling is essential as it allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in an even tastier Vinagrete.
Vinagrete Ingredients
Note: The full ingredients list is provided in the recipe card below.
- Tomatoes: Used for their juicy, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor. Tomatoes add a refreshing element to the vinaigrette and contribute to its vibrant color.
- Bell Peppers (optional): They provide crunch, sweetness, and a bit of earthiness. The use of different colored bell peppers not only adds visual appeal but also subtle variations in flavor.
- Onions: Often, red onions are used for their sharp, pungent taste, which adds depth and a slight bite to the dish. They also contribute a nice textural contrast. However, in this recipe for vinagrete, we used sweet onions for a milder taste while still contributing to the dish's texture.
- Cilantro: This herb is key for its fresh, citrusy, and slightly peppery notes. Cilantro brings a bright and refreshing element that balances the other flavors.
- Vinegar: Typically, white or red wine vinegar is used for its acidity. Vinegar gives the vinaigrette its characteristic tangy flavor and helps balance the richness of grilled meats with which it is often served.
- Olive Oil: It adds richness and smoothness and helps to meld the flavors together. Olive oil also contributes to the mouthfeel of the vinaigrette.
- Salt and Pepper: These are essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Salt helps in bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients, while pepper adds a slight heat and complexity.
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How to Make Vinagrete
Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the chopped tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and minced garlic.
- Add Liquids: Stir in the red wine vinegar and olive oil. This combination creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
- Season: Season with salt and black pepper. Add a dash of Malagueta oil or hot sauce for a spicy kick, if desired.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Final Touch: Before serving, taste your Vinagrete and make the final adjustments. Add more salt and pepper if needed, and for those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to stir in additional Malagueta oil or hot sauce.
Camila's Tip: This version of Vinagrete will have a deeper flavor due to the infusion of garlic and the tanginess of the vinegar, enhanced by the chilling process.
Substitutions:
- Onions: If sweet onions are not available, you can use red or yellow onions as a substitute for a milder taste. Alternatively, green onions can be used for a fresher and slightly less pungent flavor.
- Cilantro: If cilantro isn't to your taste or isn't available, parsley or scallions can serve as good substitutes. Parsley offers a fresh, slightly bitter taste, while scallions provide a milder onion flavor with a hint of freshness.
- Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can be used instead of white or red wine vinegar. Both alternatives provide the necessary acidity, with lemon juice adding a slightly different, more citrusy flavor.
- Olive Oil: If olive oil is not an option, other mild-flavored oils like canola or vegetable oil can be used. They won't impart the same richness as olive oil but will function similarly in emulsifying the vinaigrette.
- Salt and Pepper: While salt and pepper are basic seasonings, you can experiment with garlic salt for added flavor or try a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Variations:
Brazilian Vinagrete, while simple in its basic form, offers a variety of variations that suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some popular variations:
- Classic Vinagrete: The traditional recipe includes diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. This is the most common version, known for its fresh and tangy flavor.
- With Bell Peppers: Adding diced green, red, or yellow bell peppers can introduce a sweet and crunchy element to the Vinagrete, enhancing its texture and flavor complexity.
- Spicy Version: For those who prefer a bit of heat, adding diced jalapeños or other chili peppers can turn Vinagrete into a spicier condiment.
- With Vinegar and Oil: Some variations include a dash of vinegar and olive oil, giving the Vinagrete a more salad dressing-like consistency and a richer flavor.
- With Avocado: Adding diced avocado can give the Vinagrete a creamy texture and a richer taste, making it more substantial.
- Fruit-Based Variations: Incorporating fruits like mango, pineapple, or even apple can add a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory ingredients, creating a unique flavor profile.
- Herb Variations: Besides cilantro, herbs like parsley, mint, or oregano can be used to give different herbal notes to the Vinagrete.
- With Black Beans or Corn: Adding cooked black beans or corn can transform Vinagrete into a more filling side dish or salsa, great for scooping up with chips.
Serving Suggestions:
Vinagrete, with its fresh and tangy flavor, can be used in a variety of ways to enhance different dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a Topping for Grilled Meats: Vinagrete is a classic accompaniment to Brazilian barbecue (churrasco). It complements the richness of grilled beef, pork, chicken, and sausages.
- With Rice and Beans: Drizzle Vinagrete over a traditional Brazilian dish of rice and beans for an added zest.
- In Tacos or Fajitas: Use it as a topping for tacos, fajitas, or burritos, adding a Brazilian twist to these Mexican favorites.
- As a Salad Dressing: Toss it with fresh greens for a light and refreshing salad.
- With Seafood: It pairs well with grilled or baked fish and shrimp, enhancing their natural flavors.
- As a Dip or Salsa: Serve it with tortilla chips or crackers as a snack or appetizer.
- On Sandwiches or Wraps: Use it as a flavorful addition to sandwiches, burgers, or wraps.
- With Cooked Vegetables: Drizzle over steamed or roasted vegetables for an extra burst of flavor.
Vinagrete's versatility makes it a great condiment to have on hand, suitable for a wide range of dishes.
How to Store & Make Ahead
Store vinagrete in an airtight container and refrigerate for optimal freshness. Consume within 1-2 days. Vinaigrette can be prepared 1 hour in advance. For optimal taste and freshness, consume vinaigrette within 1 day of preparation.
Tips for Making The Best Vinagrete
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to a great Vinagrete is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro will make a significant difference in the flavor.
- Proper Chopping: Dice the tomatoes, onions, and any other ingredients uniformly. This not only makes the Vinagrete look more appealing but also ensures a balanced mix of flavors in every bite.
- Balance the Flavors: The ratio of acidic lime juice to the other ingredients is crucial. Start with a little and adjust to taste. The goal is a harmonious balance between the tanginess of the lime and the freshness of the vegetables.
- Seasoning: Don't forget to season your Vinagrete. A pinch of salt can enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients. Some people also like to add a bit of black pepper or other seasonings.
- Let It Marinate: Allowing the Vinagrete to sit for a little while before serving can help the flavors meld together. Even just 15-30 minutes can make a difference.
- Adjust to Your Taste: Vinagrete is versatile, so feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add some diced chili peppers. For a sweeter taste, try adding bell peppers.
- Consider Adding Oil: Some people like to add a drizzle of olive oil to their Vinagrete for a richer flavor and smoother texture.
- Serve at Room Temperature: Vinagrete is best served at room temperature. If you've stored it in the fridge, take it out a little before serving to allow it to come to temperature.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, but remember that Vinagrete is best enjoyed fresh.
- Experiment with Variations: Don't be afraid to try different variations of Vinagrete. Adding ingredients like avocado, mango, or different herbs can create a whole new flavor profile.
FAQ
Why is my Vinagrete too watery?
This can happen if the tomatoes are very juicy. To fix this, you can seed the tomatoes before chopping them, which removes some of their liquid content.
What if my Vinagrete tastes too acidic?
If the lime juice is overpowering, balance it out by adding more chopped vegetables or a pinch of sugar to counteract the acidity.
How can I enhance the flavor if my Vinagrete seems bland?
Ensure you've added enough salt, as it brings out the flavors of the ingredients. You can also try adding a splash of olive oil or a small amount of vinegar for depth.
My Vinagrete is too spicy, how can I fix it?
If you've added chili peppers and it's too hot, increase the amount of tomatoes and onions to dilute the spiciness. Adding some diced avocado can also help mellow the heat.
Can I make Vinagrete without cilantro if I don't like it?
Absolutely. While cilantro is traditional, you can omit it or substitute it with parsley or even a little bit of mint for a different flavor profile.
What should I do if my Vinagrete is too chunky?
Simply chop the ingredients into smaller pieces for a finer texture. Consistency is key, so try to chop all components to a similar size.
How can I prevent my Vinagrete from becoming soggy?
Avoid making it too far in advance, as the salt can draw out moisture from the vegetables over time. Also, store it in the fridge if not consuming immediately.
Is there a way to make Vinagrete last longer?
While fresh consumption is best, ensuring it's stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator can help extend its life, though it's best enjoyed within a couple of days.
Can I use lemon juice instead of lime?
Yes, lemon juice can be a substitute for lime juice, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Why does my Vinagrete taste different each time I make it?
This could be due to variations in the freshness and exact flavor of the ingredients, especially as tomatoes and onions can vary in taste. Adjusting the quantities and seasonings to your preference each time can help.
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📋 Recipe
Vinagrete
Have you ever tried Vinagrete? It's a delightful Brazilian condiment that can infuse your meals with a burst of flavor. Made with fresh ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a blend of oil and vinegar, this recipe for Brazilian vinagrete is easy to follow and can be customized to your preferences. You can enjoy Vinagrete as a flavorful topping for grilled meats and seafood r as a way to enhance rice and beans.
Ingredients
- 680 g Plum Tomatoes , deseeded and small diced (If you prefer not to deseed the tomatoes, you can simply dice them without removing the seeds).
- 680 g Onion , small diced
- 21 g fresh parsley , cilantro, or green onion, chopped
- ¾ teaspoon fresh garlic , finely minced
- 90 ml red wine vinegar or white vinegar
- 90 ml extra virgin olive oil or vegetable
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt , adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground Black pepper , adjust to taste
- Optional: Red pepper Flakes , Malagueta oil, or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the chopped tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and minced garlic.
- Add Liquids: Stir in the red wine vinegar and olive oil. This combination creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
- Season: Season with salt and black pepper. Add a dash of Malagueta oil or hot sauce for a spicy kick, if desired.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Final Touch: Before serving, taste your Vinagrete and make the final adjustments. Add more salt and pepper if needed, and for those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to stir in additional Malagueta oil or hot sauce.
- Camila's Tip: This version of Vinagrete will have a deeper flavor due to the infusion of garlic and the tanginess of the vinegar, enhanced by the chilling process.
Notes
How to Store & Make Ahead
Store vinagrete in an airtight container and refrigerate for optimal freshness. Consume within 1-2 days. Vinaigrette can be prepared 1 hour in advance. For optimal taste and freshness, consume vinaigrette within 1 day of preparation.
Nutrition Facts
Vinagrete
Amount per Serving
Calories
86
% Daily Value*
Fat
7
g
11
%
Saturated Fat
1
g
6
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
1
g
Monounsaturated Fat
5
g
Sodium
198
mg
9
%
Potassium
98
mg
3
%
Carbohydrates
6
g
2
%
Fiber
1
g
4
%
Sugar
2
g
2
%
Protein
1
g
2
%
Vitamin A
149
IU
3
%
Vitamin C
7
mg
8
%
Calcium
17
mg
2
%
Iron
0.3
mg
2
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.
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