Local Flavors

Araxá Cheese

While less internationally known than Canastra, Araxá cheese is equally delightful. This local cheese, also made from raw milk and matured, has its own unique characteristics. It offers a slightly milder flavor and a texture that ranges from soft to firm, making it a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Araxá.

• Where to Taste: You can find Araxá cheese in specialty cheese shops, local markets, and eateries around the city.

Canastra Cheese

Canastra cheese is one of Brazil’s most celebrated artisanal cheeses, originating from the Canastra Mountain range, not far from Araxá. Made from raw cow’s milk, Canastra cheese is known for its firm texture and robust flavor, which intensifies with aging. Depending on the maturation period, it can develop a hard rind and a creamy interior. Enjoy it on its own, paired with a good cup of coffee, or incorporated into traditional recipes.

• Where to Taste: Look for Canastra cheese in local markets, artisanal fairs, and restaurants that showcase regional cuisine.

Araxá Coffee

The coffee from Araxá is another gem of the region. Grown on high-altitude farms in an ideal climate, Araxá coffee beans produce a brew that is rich, aromatic, and balanced with fruity notes and smooth acidity. Whether you enjoy it black, as a drip coffee, or as an espresso, Araxá’s coffee is a true delight. The ritual of enjoying coffee, often paired with a slice of pão de queijo (cheese bread) or a traditional sweet, is an essential part of local culture.

• Where to Taste: Visit local coffee shops, nearby coffee farms that offer tastings, and markets selling freshly roasted beans.

Pão de Queijo (Cheese Bread)

Pão de queijo is perhaps the most iconic snack in Minas Gerais. These small, round cheese breads are made from cassava flour, eggs, and cheese, creating a chewy texture with a crispy exterior. Pão de queijo is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven and pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. It’s a staple at breakfast tables and cafés throughout Araxá.

• Where to Taste: You can find pão de queijo at virtually any bakery, café, or restaurant in Araxá. It’s a must-try during your visit.

Doce de Leite (Milk Caramel)

Doce de leite is a beloved sweet across Brazil, but the version from Minas Gerais is particularly famous. This creamy, caramel-like dessert is made by slowly simmering milk and sugar until it reaches a rich, golden consistency. Doce de leite can be enjoyed on its own, spread on bread, or used as a filling for cakes and pastries. It’s a versatile treat that captures the essence of Brazilian comfort food.

• Where to Taste: You can find artisanal doce de leite in local gourmet shops, bakeries, and supermarkets around Araxá.

Daily Staples: Arroz com Feijão

The daily diet of many Araxá residents revolves around the simple yet beloved combination of arroz com feijão (rice and beans). This dish is a fundamental part of Brazilian cuisine, providing a nutritious and filling base for lunch and dinner. In Araxá, rice and beans are often accompanied by meats, vegetables, and other side dishes, making it a comforting and essential meal.

• Where to Taste: Arroz com feijão is served in almost every local restaurant and is a key part of home-cooked meals.