Welcome to the vibrant world of Brazilian cuisine, where flavors dance and traditions come alive. Among the many culinary treasures Brazil has to offer, one that stands out for its rich and indulgent taste is the beloved "Doce de Leite." Translated as "sweet milk," this delightful confection embodies the essence of Brazilian sweetness and warmth.

Hailing from a country known for its diverse culture, Brazil's Doce de Leite is a sweetened milk treat that has won the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Its creamy texture, caramelized notes, and irresistible sweetness make it a favorite for celebrations, gatherings, or just a comforting indulgence on any given day.

Join us on a culinary journey as we unravel the secrets behind crafting the perfect Brazilian Doce de Leite. This simple yet heavenly recipe brings the authentic flavors of Brazil straight to your kitchen, allowing you to create a piece of Brazilian joy wherever you are. Get ready to embrace the magic of sweetened milk and experience the warmth of Brazilian hospitality through this delectable treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (800g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 pinch of salt (optional, to enhance flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added depth)

Instructions:

Preparation:Remove the labels from the sweetened condensed milk cans.

Stovetop Method:

1-Place the unopened cans of sweetened condensed milk in a deep saucepan.

2-Fill the saucepan with enough water to completely submerge the cans.

3-Bring the water to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Cooking Process:

1-Allow the cans to simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours. Ensure the cans are always fully submerged in water, adding more as needed.

2-Keep a close eye on the water level to prevent it from boiling off.

Caramelization:

1-After the cooking time, carefully remove the cans from the water using tongs.

2-Let them cool completely before opening to avoid any potential splattering.

3-Open the cans, and you'll reveal the luscious, caramelized Doce de Leite.

Final Touches:

1-Transfer the creamy Doce de Leite to a bowl.

2-Add a pinch of salt for a delightful contrast or a teaspoon of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. Mix well.

Serving:Serve the Doce de Leite on its own, spread it on toast, drizzle over desserts, or incorporate it into your favorite recipes.

Storage:Store any leftover Doce de Leite in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Enjoy the enchanting flavors of Brazil with this simple yet decadent Doce de Leite recipe. Whether shared with loved ones or savored in solitude, this sweet treat captures the essence of Brazilian warmth and culinary charm. Bom apetite!

Nutritional Values:

Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and formulations, but here are approximate values for the mentioned ingredients:

Sweetened Condensed Milk (per 100g):

• Calories: 321 kcal
• Total Fat: 8.5g
• Saturated Fat: 5.4g
• Cholesterol: 33mg
• Sodium: 113mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 54.3g
• Sugars: 54.3g
• Protein: 7.5g

(Values may differ slightly based on brand and specific product formulation.)

benefits:

Energy Source: Sweetened condensed milk is a concentrated source of calories and provides a quick energy boost due to its high sugar content.

Calcium and Protein: It contains calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function.

Pinch of Salt (Negligible for nutritional information):

• Salt is typically added in very small amounts, and its nutritional contribution is minimal.

benefits: Enhances Flavor: While salt is primarily used for flavor, it also plays a role in enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Vanilla Extract (per teaspoon - 4g):

• Calories: 12 kcal
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 0.5g
• Sugars: 0.5g

(Values for vanilla extract are based on a standard formulation.)

benefits:

Flavor Enhancement: Vanilla extract adds depth and richness to the flavor profile of the Doce de Leite, making it more aromatic and appealing.

Antioxidant Properties: Vanilla contains antioxidants that may help neutralize free radicals in the body.

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and formulations of the ingredients you use. Always refer to the nutrition label on the product packaging for the most accurate information.