Feijoada – Brazil’s Hearty Black Bean Stew

Feijoada – Brazil’s Hearty Black Bean Stew

Feijoada is Brazil’s national dish, a soulful and rich black bean stew that combines a variety of meats, including pork and beef, with beans, spices, and aromatics. Traditionally served with rice, sautéed greens, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and orange slices, Feijoada is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of Brazilian culinary heritage. The dish is typically enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions, and it has become a favorite among Home Cook worldwide, thanks to its deep flavors and comforting appeal. Food recipes for Feijoada vary by region and family traditions, and you’ll find many versions on Cookpad.

The beauty of Feijoada lies in its slow cooking, which allows the flavors to develop into a robust, savory stew. The combination of meats like pork ribs, sausage, and beef cuts, simmered with black beans, onions, and garlic, creates a dish that’s hearty and satisfying. With food recipes available on Cookpad, it’s easy for HomeCook worldwide to recreate this classic Brazilian dish and bring a taste of Brazil to their own kitchens.

Traditional Brazilian Feijoada Recipe

Ingredients:

• 500 g dried black beans (soaked overnight)
• 300 g pork ribs, cut into pieces
• 300 g smoked sausage (like chorizo), sliced
• 200 g beef chuck, cut into cubes
• 150 g bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Water as needed

For serving:

• White rice
• Sautéed collard greens or kale
• Orange slices
• Farofa (toasted cassava flour)

Method:

1. Prepare the beans:
   Drain the soaked black beans and set aside.
2. Cook the meats:
   In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Brown the bacon, sausage, pork ribs, and beef chuck in batches. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics:
   In the same pot, add chopped onions and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Return all the browned meats to the pot.
4. Simmer the Feijoada:
   Add the drained black beans, bay leaves, paprika (if using), and enough water to cover everything. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally and adding more water if needed. The stew is ready when the beans are tender and the flavors are well combined.
5. Serve:
   Spoon Feijoada over rice, add sautéed greens, orange slices, and a sprinkle of farofa. Enjoy this classic Brazilian comfort food!

FAQs about Feijoada

1. Can I use canned black beans instead of dried?
Yes! Some Home Cook worldwide on Cookpad use canned black beans to save time. Just reduce the cooking time and adjust the liquid accordingly.

2. What cuts of meat are best for Feijoada?
Traditional food recipes include a mix of pork and beef cuts—pork ribs, smoked sausage, and beef chuck are popular choices.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Feijoada keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it tastes even better the next day. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

4. Is Feijoada always served with orange slices?
Yes, orange slices are a traditional accompaniment as they help cut through the richness of the stew, and many Home Cook worldwide on Cookpad love this refreshing touch in their food recipes.

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