Brigadeiro - Brigadeiria do Gil
Imagine a bite-sized chocolate confection that has become a symbol of joy and national pride in Brazil. The Brigadeiro, a delightful treat that sits somewhere between a truffle and fudge, is not just a sweet delight but a piece of Brazilian history. Named after Brigadier Eduardo Gomes, a presidential candidate in the 1940s, this iconic sweet was born out of political necessity and has since become a staple at nearly every Brazilian celebration. Join us at Brigadeiria do Gil in São Paulo to experience the magic of the Brigadeiro firsthand, and discover the fascinating story behind this beloved treat.
The Brigadeiro is Brazil’s most iconic sweet, a bite-sized chocolate confection that sits somewhere between a truffle and fudge. It is a staple at nearly every Brazilian celebration, especially children's birthday parties, where it is considered a symbol of joy and national pride.
History
The sweet has a unique political history dating back to the 1940s:
Political Campaign: It was named after Brigadier Eduardo Gomes, a dashing Air Force commander who ran for the Brazilian presidency in 1945.
Fundraising: His supporters, mostly women, created and sold the treat at rallies to raise money for his campaign. At the time, fresh milk and sugar were scarce due to post-WWII rations, so they used the more available condensed milk instead.
Fun Facts
- One of his popular campaign slogans was: 'Vote for the Brigadier, who is handsome and single' ('Vote no brigadeiro, que é bonito e é solteiro'). While Gomes lost the election, the 'Brigadier's sweet' became a permanent winner in Brazilian cuisine.
- The Brigadeiro was born out of political necessity, using condensed milk instead of fresh milk and sugar due to post-WWII rations.
Guide Tips
- Visit during a children's birthday party to experience the Brigadeiro in its traditional setting.
- Try the Brigadeiro with a cup of strong Brazilian coffee for an authentic taste experience.
- Explore the political history behind the Brigadeiro at local museums or historical sites.
Opening Hours
Mon-Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Sat-Sun: Closed