It’s time to samba and celebrate Brazil’s Independence Day
In Brazil, celebrations are never understated – and 7th September is no exception. On this day, Brazilians around the world will mark Independence Day.
The event celebrates the anniversary of the country’s liberation from Portuguese rule in 1822, which ended 322 years of colonial dominance.
We catch up with Brazilians in Abu Dhabi to find out what they miss about home and how they’re planning to celebrate the special day.
Marise Cardoso is from Brasilia
“The celebration of 7th September should be a reflection for all Brazilians who believe in the country.
“We are much more than a football team: we are people with hope and a twinkle in our eye, who believe in better days, and work hard for our self-independence.
“I miss the nature – the various shades and the beaches and waterfalls – the spontaneity and joy of people in the streets, and of course, the warmth of family and friends.”
Marcelo Freitas is from Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro
“Brazilian national day means the independence of my country after many years
of colonial dominance of Portugal.
“Brazilians should be more proud of it, and keep this in mind when we vote, so we can be free of the corruption that’s now in Brazil.
“I work a lot here, so have little time to celebrate, but I will remember the important date.
“I have great memories of my family and friends, the nature of my hometown, waterfalls and the beach.”
Magaly Dias de Quadros is from São Paulo
“To me, national day represents the day Brazil became an independent country and no longer a Portuguese colony. It reminds me of parades and celebrations during my childhood.
“This year, I will explain the importance of the day to my daughter.
“I miss a lot of things about Brazil but what I miss most is my family and friends. And I can’t forget the food, places and culture. I will forever have great memories of the
places I grew up in.”
Recipe:
Brigadeiro
These chocolate truffles offer a sweet taste of Brazil
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, plus a little extra
- 400g sweetened condensed milk
- 4 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 50g toasted chopped pistachios, almond flakes or desiccated coconut
Method:
1.) In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, condensed milk, a pinch of salt and
the cocoa. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
2.) Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring constantly, until the
mixture is thick and shiny and starts to pull away from the bottom.
3.) Stir in the vanilla and vigorously mix again. Pour the mixture on to a buttered plate and chill for at least two hours.
4.) Butter your hands, pinch off some of the dough and roll into 2.5cm balls. Place either the pistachios, almonds or coconut into small bowls and coat the balls in your chosen toppings.
5.) Place in mini cupcake cases or on a tray lined with non-stick baking paper and serve.
Infobox:
Embassy of Brazil Sultan Bin Zayed the First Street, opposite Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre. 02 632 0606 abudhabi.itamaraty.gov.br/pt-br/
Brazilians in Abu Dhabi www.internations.org/abu-dhabi-expats/brazilians
Chamas Churrascaria and Bar InterContinental Hotel Abu Dhabi, King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Al Bateen. 02 666 6888 bit.ly/1NykRok
