Sweet Cornmeal Bread with Fennel – Traditional Brazilian “Broa de Fubá”
Looking for a unique, comforting homemade bread with a touch of nostalgia? This Sweet Cornmeal Bread with Fennel Seeds, known in Brazil as Broa de Fubá com Erva-Doce, is a golden, slightly sweet, and wonderfully aromatic baked treat—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon coffee break.
🌽 Ingredients
- 2 cups fine cornmeal (fubá mimoso)
- 1 ½ cups sweet starch (polvilho doce or tapioca starch)
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 cups milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- Extra cornmeal for coating the dough balls
🥣 Instructions
1. Cook the Base Dough
In a large saucepan, combine the cornmeal, sweet starch, sugar, salt, oil, and milk. Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan, forming a dense, smooth dough. This process is essential to give the broa its unique texture.
2. Cool the Dough
Remove the pan from heat and allow the dough to cool completely to room temperature. Do not rush this step, as adding eggs to a hot dough may cause them to cook prematurely.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients
Once the dough is cool, add the eggs, fennel seeds, and baking powder. Mix thoroughly with your hands until the dough becomes uniform. The fennel adds a warm, aromatic note that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the bread.
4. Shape the Dough
Using a spoon or your hands, form small balls of dough (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each ball lightly in extra cornmeal for a rustic, slightly crunchy finish.
5. Bake to Perfection
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the dough balls, leaving space between them to expand. Preheat your oven to 465°F (240°C) and bake for approximately 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly cracked on the surface.
💡 Tips for Perfect Broa de Fubá
- Choose fine cornmeal (fubá mimoso) for a smooth, soft texture. Avoid coarse grits.
- Fennel is optional but highly recommended—it gives the broa its traditional fragrance and makes each bite more flavorful.
- For extra aroma, add a splash of anise extract or a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. You can reheat them briefly in the oven to restore their texture.
☕ Serving Suggestions
These sweet cornmeal rolls are perfect served warm with:
- Butter or jam
- A drizzle of honey
- A hot cup of coffee, chai, or herbal tea
They also pair beautifully with savory foods like cheese or cold cuts for a sweet-salty contrast.
📝 Final Thoughts
Broa de Fubá with fennel is more than just a recipe—it’s a taste of Brazilian tradition. With its soft center, golden crust, and subtle notes of fennel, this rustic bread is a heartwarming treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch or simply want a taste of something nostalgic, this cornmeal bread brings comfort, flavor, and a touch of cultural richness to your table.
Try baking a batch today and discover why this traditional recipe has stood the test of time!
