Paçoca

Paçoca (Portuguese: [paˈsɔka]) is a brazilian candy typical from São Paulo cuisine, originating in the interior of São Paulo. It is made out of ground peanuts, sugar, honey and salt. Some recipes also add flour, such as corn flour, oat flour or cassava flour. Typical of the São Paulo Caipira cuisine, it is also present in other states in the country, such as Minas Gerais and Paraná, being either manufactured or home-made. Paçoca is also very common during the Festa Junina, an annual festivity that celebrates the caipira lifestyle in Brazil. It is known for its distinct dry texture and sweet taste, and is one of the most beloved Brazilian candies.

The state of São Paulo is the largest producer of peanuts in Brazil, while the Santa Helena Group, created in 1942 in the city of Ribeirão Preto, is responsible for the production of Paçoquita, the most consumed paçoca in the country. It is made in a cork or rectangular shape. The group has also launched, in recent years, the creamy version and other versions, such as Paçoquita Diet.