The Brazilian Gala Dinner hosted by Apex-Brasil and The Embassy of Brazil as part of Gulfood took place last night at the Godolphin Ballroom, Emirates Towers in Dubai.

With VIP guests including the  Brazil ambassador João de Mendonça Lima Neto and the president of Apex-Brasil Mauricio Borges, the event invited guests to enjoy Brazilian cuisine specially prepared by chef Paulo Machado.

This year, Brazil was the country of honour at Gulfood with 47 Brazilian companies showcasing their food products and services.

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Mauricio Borges, president of Apex-Brasil, said, “Given the enormous significance of Gulfood it was imperative that Brazil has a strong representation at the event, especially since countries in the Arabian Gulf are a prime export destination for Brazilian food products, which are renowned for their quality.

"Moreover, with Brazilian food companies fully adhering to halal standards and other quality regulations being adopted in key regional markets, we believe that export volumes will continue to grow and serve as a driver for long-term trade and economic cooperation. Therefore, Apex-Brasil will continue to explore innovative ways to build stronger ties between Brazilian exporters and their counterparts in the Arab world.”

On offer at the gala dinner were dishes including Frango com Quiabo, a traditional Brazilian chicken with okra; Chibé, Brazilian refreshing cold soup perfumed with amazon herbs and manioc flour and Salada de FeijãoFradinho e Cebola, black eyed peas salad with onions.

Just one of the tasty courses included ArrozCarreteiro, Pantanal style rice with cured beef tenderloin and sun-dried meat; served with ChurrascoPantaneiro, Brazilian style picanha, cap of top sirloin barbecue;MolhoVinagrete, campana sauce; and Farofa, manioc flour from Brazil.

The dinner was held to celebrate the trade links Brazil was creating with the UAE.

Last year alone the UAE imported nearly US$1.6 billion worth of food and beverage products from Brazil.