Brigadeiros

 

A little bit of History. (Thank God there is Wikipedia to help me!)

Brigadeiro, national candy of Brazil, ( Portuguese for Brigadier ; also known in some southern brazilian states as negrinho , literally "blackie") is a simple Brazilian chocolate candy , created in the 1940s and named after Brigadier Eduardo Gomes , whose shape is reminiscent of that of some varieties of chocolate truffles . In Brazil it is usually served at birthday parties.

Eduardo Gomes was a Brazilian Air Force brigadier who first gained notoriety for playing a part in squashing a communist rebellion in Rio de Janeiro , in late 1930's. Later he ran unsuccessfully for the presidency in 1946 and 1950 . This was a time of shortage of traditional imports such as nuts and fruits because of the war . But, at the same time, Nestlé was introducing its brand of chocolate powder and condensed milk (known in Switzerland as Milch Mädchen ) into the country.

Although Brazil is a major producer of cocoa beans , it is believed that the creation and success of the candy was a combination of opportunities: the multinational corporation Nestlé, which introduced chocolate powder and condensed milk; the creators who named it after the famous politician, the need to find a replacement to imported sweets; and its ease of manufacture.

Ok, now we all know what a brigadeiro is. Let's cook some!
 

Brigadeiro

1 can (395g) condensed milk

1/2 cup cocoa powder

1Tbspoon butter

Mix it all together in a pan.Then heat the mixture on the stove or in a microwave oven to obtain a smooth, sticky texture.Pour it in a buttered dish and let it cool. Roll into small balls and cover in granulated chocolate.

It can also be consumed unrolled, with a spoon or used as a topping or filling for cakes , brownies and other pastries.

Some other pictures of brigadeiros I've found out in Internet

Nowadays you can find many kinds of modern brigadeiros, as the white one I'd served on my daughter's birthdays. Just substitute cocoa powder for milk powder and add 100g chopped white chocolate.