Creme de abacate (Avocado Cream)

Most Americans are surprised when they see avocado cream in the dessert menu in Brazil. In this country, avocados are used in salads only.

In Brazil, they become delicious ice creams and creamy desserts like this one.

Note : The fruit are also amazingly huge down there, so when I say large in the recipe I mean LARGE.

1 large avocado, peeled and pitted  or ( 4 avocados American size)

1 Can condensed milk

Place all ingredients in a blender and puree. Serve in a stemmed glass; it looks beautiful and will impress your guests no end. Serve it in little bowls. Decorate with a little sprig of mint.

Brigadeiros (Brigadiers)

           

These sweets made with condensed milk and chocolate belong to that marvelous category of Brazilian "docinhos." They are perpetual favorites with children and adults alike. I don't think I've ever seen a Brazilian birthday party without them and they are a huge success with Americans, too.

1 can sweetened condensed milk

1/2 stick of butter or margarine (you can use only 1 Tbsp and it will still work out)

2 heaping Tbsp of Nestlé Quick or 1 Tbsp of Quick and 1 of Hershey's Cocoa. I actually even use Suchard breakfast chocolate when I can get it from Switzerland.

Brigadeiro de Colher Brigadeiro de Colher

                            In a heavy saucepan mix chocolate with condensed milk and add the margarine. Cook in low heat stirring constantly until you can see the bottom of the pan. Continue to stir for another two minutes. Pour onto a plate and let cool completely before you form the little balls (I usually leave it in the cupboard until next day). Butter your hands slightly to form the little balls. Roll the balls in chocolate powder or jimmies and put them in small paper cups.

Sorce (Maria Brazil)