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Minas Gerais (Sarah)

Minas Gerais is located in the southeast of Brazil and is home to 20 million habitants making it
the second most populated state. Interestingly it is the fourth largest state in the country and is

named after its abundance of minerals. The population is full of European, Portuguese, and
African origins all of which make the state unique and diverse. Religious and historical colonial
influences are evident in the culture and architecture of Minas Gerais. In fact, Roman
Catholicism is the most prevalent religion that is practiced by many habitants. Aside from the
state's wealth of minerals, it is also the country's leading producer of rice, beans, corn, coffee
and cheese.

Cuisine
Minas Gerais is know for its diverse and
exquisite cuisine in fact some recognize it
as the culinary capital of Brazil. The
cuisine ranges fromdistinct types of
cheeses to an assortment of traditional
meat dishes.Some of these cheeses

include queijo minas, requeijao and
catupiry. Pão de queijo is a popular dish
known as “brazilian cheese bread”.A
traditional dish from this part of Brazil,
known as Feijao tropeiro, is made with
beans, sausage, bacon, collard greens,
eggs and manioc flour. Additionally, Carne de sol com mandioca is a dish made with salted
cured beef and manioca, a potato like legume which is similar to yucca and cassava. Another
popular dish of Minas Gerais is known as péla mare which is crushed corn and pork.

Music
Brazilian music contains a variety of different sounds that come from very important historical
influences, particularly the African culture. A popular music style that is known throughout the
country but is more prevalent in Minas Gerais is known as Sertanejo. This style of music dates
back to the 1920’s, originating from festival and religious celebrations. Sertanejo shares many
similarities to Iberian folk songs however advancements in technology have modernized this
style of music.

Economy
As the state’s name suggests, Minas Gerais is known for the minerals it possesses that are
found in the state's abundant mines. Additionally, it is the largest producer of coffee and dairy
products. The state generates close to 10% of Brazilian GNP in addition to 13% of Brazil’s
exports, making it an important component in the country's economy.

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