Sagu (Brazilian Grape Tapioca)

Jun 07, 2023June 7, 20230 4

Sagu: A Sweet, Chewy Brazilian Treat

by The Chefin Dessert

Prep

5 min

Cook

45 min

Ready In

50 min

Level

Very easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1 quart water
	1 cup sweetened grape juice concentrate ( or 1/2 cup grape juice concentrate and 1/2 cup sweetened red wine )
	1 cup tapioca ( sagu , not minute tapioca )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

4-6

Calories

180

Sugar

23g

Fat

Sagu is a classic Brazilian dessert that's made from tapioca pearls and grape juice (or sometimes red wine). The tapioca pearls are cooked in sweetened juice until they soften and become translucent, creating a unique texture that's both chewy and slightly gelatinous. The finished dessert is usually served cold and topped with fresh fruit or whipped cream for added sweetness. While sagu may not be the most elegant dessert out there, it's a beloved staple in Brazilian cuisine and is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Instructions

1.	Combine the water and grape juice concentrate (or wine and grape juice concentrate) in a large saucepan and bring to a boil.
2.	Add the tapioca and stir well. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring frequently.
3.	Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
4.	Serve hot or cold, garnished with fresh fruit or whipped cream if desired.

PROS

Sagu is a simple yet tasty dessert that can easily be customized with different fruit juices and flavorings.
It’s also vegan and gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.

CONS

The texture of sagu can be a bit polarizing – some people love its chewy, gelatinous consistency, while others find it too gummy.
Additionally, the high sugar content of grape juice concentrate means that sagu is not the healthiest dessert option.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While sagu is not exactly a nutritional powerhouse, tapioca does contain some health benefits. It’s a good source of iron, which is important for oxygen transport in the body, and also contains small amounts of calcium and vitamin K. However, it’s important to note that tapioca is high in carbohydrates and relatively low in fiber.