Marcello Tully has achieved a huge amount since leaving Brazil at the age of six and landing his first kitchen job – in Britain - at the age of fourteen. There has been a formative spell under Albert Roux, years spent carving out success in catering and, more recently, success to the tune of a Michelin star and 3AA Rosettes at Skye’s stunning Kinloch Lodge.
But on the eve of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, his thoughts have returned to his homeland once again – and using his childhood as way of inspiration, he has shared some vibrant, Brazilian street food-style recipes with Great British Chefs, designed to complement the action on the pitch and help you hold your own World Cup party.
“All of these Brazilian recipes are very reminiscent of my childhood – wherever there’s good food there are always happy people,” he explains.
While in Britain we may consider Football and Favelas to be greater symbols of Brazilian culture, another ‘F’ word – food – is equally intrinsic. And traditional snacks like Paezinhos de Nozes (pistachio biscuits), Acaraje (savoury bean and onion cakes) and Pao de Queijo (cheese bread) are perfect for kicking back and watching the games – easy to prepare and even easier to eat!
“These treats make the ideal spread,” he says. “We could class them as comfort food, fit for the occasion and a get-together with friends and family.
“The food is served to be nibbled throughout the game,” he continues, “not to spoil our concentration - a pick up/put down item that’s delicious from the first to the last bite.”