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RIO DE JANEIRO — Driving back to the grocery store for an ingredient you forgot is not a luxury everyone has in Brazil. Especially those who get their fresh produce from a traditional street market.
It's a weekly event in Brazilian neighborhoods. A day at the market is just what you do. But the one you go to depends on the day.
“Where my aunt lives it's on Tuesdays. Where my mom lives it's on Wednesdays so every neighborhood has their own feira,” said Renata Braga Ryan, a Utah resident native to Brazil.
It's Sunday which means Ryan and her daughters are heading to the Copacabana market, something Ryan grew up doing.
“When I think of childhood, you know, the roots this is it. The colorful air markets what you call feira. The trying of fruits as we are going to see if you like it or not bargaining with them trying to get the best price."
And with years of practice, it's no wonder she is a pro at getting bargains. The key: buying from the same vendors.
“It's like you have a relationship with them. They know already what you want like if you buy the same thing every week."
Fruits, veggies, herbs, spices, even meats — all fresh produce to last you 7 days. And shopping on an empty stomach is strongly advised.
Ryan says these feiras serve as gathering places for neighbors as a reflection of Brazilian culture.
“We are messy, we are loud. Have the good and the bad, all mixed up. It's a great flavor. It's a great taste,” she said.
Another reason the feiras are only once a week is because the same vendors head to a different neighborhood each day.
