Acarai

Acarai is a popular street food from the state of Ceará in Brazil, particularly in the city of Fortaleza. It is a dish made from a mixture of dried shrimp, peanuts, and cashews, which are ground together to form a paste. This paste is then mixed with various spices and seasonings, including garlic, onion, chili peppers, and lime juice. The resulting mixture is typically served as a dip or spread, often accompanied by fresh vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers.

The dish is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, and it is known for its rich, savory flavor and crunchy texture. Acarai is a staple in the local cuisine of Ceará and is widely popular throughout Brazil. It is also a common ingredient in other Ceará dishes, such as the popular street food acará, which is a type of grilled meat skewer often served with acarai as a dipping sauce.

The origins of acarai are not well-documented, but it is believed to have been developed as a way to preserve and transport seafood, given the region's coastal location. The dish has gained international recognition in recent years, with variations and adaptations appearing in restaurants and food markets around the world. Despite its popularity, acarai remains a quintessential part of the culinary landscape of Ceará, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage and diverse food traditions.