What is tacaca? Everything on the plate went viral with Joelma’s song

The nutritionist explains what it is, what the benefits are and how to prepare this super popular delicacy in the state of Pará

It’s very likely that at some point in the last few months you’ve heard the phrase, “I’m going to do a tacaca“, sung by Joelma in the song “Voando Pro Pará”. In proportion to the success of the song, which exploded throughout Brazil, the number of people trying to know what tacacá is increased considerably. So, what is this name that Is it on everyone’s lips?

Second Tatiane Schallitznutritionist from the Instituto Nutrindo Idealis, tacacá is a traditional delicacy of Amazonian cuisine, particularly appreciated in the state of Pará. Below explains everything about the dish.

What is tacaca?

Tacacá is a type of broth prepared with tucupi (a yellow broth extracted from wild cassava), tapioca gum, dried shrimp, jambu (an Amazonian herb that causes a slight tingle in the mouth), and seasonings such as garlic and chicory.

According to Tatiane, in addition to being a nutritious option, it represents an essential part of the rich culture and tradition of the Amazon region. “When prepared with fresh ingredients and following traditional preparation techniques, this typical dish offers a sensorial and culturally enriching experience,” he says.

“Valuing local ingredients and respecting traditional culinary practices not only helps preserve Amazonian culture, but also provides a more authentic and healthy meal. Therefore, when we enjoy a plate of tacacá, we not only nourish our body, but we also connect with the history, knowledge and flavors of this unique region,” he adds.

Health benefits

Tacacá is a healthy option thanks to its balanced composition of essential nutrients.

“Rich in protein from dried shrimp, carbohydrates from tapioca and tucupi gum, and healthy fats found in ingredients like shrimp, it offers a variety of nutrients needed for the body to function,” Tatiane points out.

Furthermore, the dish contains ingredients with antioxidant properties, such as jambu and garlic, which fight free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. “Jambu has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall health,” she explains. He adds: “These nutrients and properties make tacacá a healthy option to include in a balanced diet, providing not only essential nutrients, but also long-term health benefits.”

The nutritionist emphasizes, however, that it is important to consume this delicacy in moderation, since excessive consumption may present some harm due to some components and preparations, such as the amount of salt and added fats.

“For example, dried shrimp, commonly used in tacacá, tend to be high in sodium, which can be harmful to people with high blood pressure or heart problems. Additionally, tucupi, if not prepared properly, can contain cyanide residues that they are toxic if consumed in large quantities,” warns Tatiane.

“Excess fats added during preparation can also contribute to high calorie consumption, which can lead to weight gain if not balanced with an active lifestyle,” he adds. Therefore, it is important to consume tacacá in moderation and be aware of possible adverse health effects, especially for those suffering from specific medical conditions.

Are there any contraindications to consuming tacacá?

Yes. The nutritionist states that some tacacá ingredients may be contraindicated in specific conditions. Are they:

Shrimp: People allergic to seafood should avoid consuming tacacá that contains dried shrimp, as it can trigger serious allergic reactions.

Tucupi: Due to the possible presence of cyanide in wild cassava, used to produce tucupi, people with cyanide sensitivities or gastrointestinal issues may need to avoid excessive consumption of tucupi.

Sodium: Dried shrimp, commonly used in tacacá, can be high in sodium, which can be harmful to people with high blood pressure or heart problems, and should be consumed in moderation by these people.

Fat: Excess fat added when preparing tacacá can contribute to high calorie consumption, which may be undesirable for people trying to lose weight or control blood cholesterol levels.

“It is important that people with specific medical conditions or dietary restrictions consult a healthcare professional before including tacacá in their diet, to ensure it is safe and appropriate for them,” he warns.

How to make tacacá?

Here, Tatiane recommends a basic recipe for making tacacá at home and trying the viral dish:

ingredients

• 500 ml of tucupi
• 200 g of tapioca starch
• 200 g of dried prawns
• 1 pack of jambu
• 3 cloves of garlic
• Salt to taste

Preparation method

Start by preparing the tucupi. Place the tucupi in a pan over medium heat and boil for about 10 minutes to eliminate the bitter taste. Reserve. While the tucupi boils, prepare the jambu. Remove the leaves from the bunch and wash them well. Then place the leaves in a pan with boiling water for about 1 minute, just to soften them. Drain and reserve. Place the dried prawns in another pan and cover them with water. Leave to soak for about 30 minutes to hydrate the shrimp. Then drain the water and set the shrimp aside. Heat a little oil in a pan and add the chopped garlic cloves. Fry until lightly browned. Add the dried prawns to the pan with the fried garlic and fry them for a few minutes until they become crispy. Reserve.

To serve, place a portion of tapioca starch in the center of a deep bowl. Pour the hot tucupi over the gum, covering it completely. Add the dried shrimp on top of the tucupi and arrange the jambu leaves around the bowl. Serve the tacacá very hot and, if desired, season with salt.

“This is a basic tacacá recipe, but remember that the proportions and ingredients may vary depending on personal preferences and availability of ingredients. Enjoy your meal!”

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.