Brazilian Feijoada is a hearty, comforting stew that is considered the national dish of Brazil. This rich and flavorful dish is made with black beans slow-cooked with a variety of smoked and salted meats, such as pork ribs, sausages, and bacon, infused with garlic, onions, and spices. Feijoada is traditionally served with rice, collard greens, orange slices, and farofa (toasted cassava flour), creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dish is often enjoyed during gatherings with family and friends, where its deep, savory flavors and warming qualities make it the centerpiece of a celebratory meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried black beans, soaked overnight
- 1 lb (450g) pork shoulder, cut into cubes
- 1/2 lb (225g) pork ribs, cut into pieces
- 1/2 lb (225g) smoked sausage, sliced
- 1/4 lb (115g) bacon, chopped
- 1/2 lb (225g) carne seca (Brazilian dried beef) or corned beef, soaked overnight and cut into cubes
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 cups water or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- White rice
- Sautéed collard greens
- Orange slices
- Farofa (toasted cassava flour)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked black beans. Set aside.
- Brown the Meats: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. In the same pot, brown the pork shoulder, pork ribs, and carne seca (or corned beef) in batches until they develop a nice crust. Remove the meats from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Combine the Ingredients: Return all the browned meats to the pot, along with the sausage and the cooked bacon. Add the soaked black beans, bay leaves, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and a generous amount of black pepper. Pour in the water or beef broth, ensuring the beans and meats are fully submerged. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Feijoada: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the feijoada simmer gently for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and the meats are falling apart. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep the ingredients covered.
- Season and Serve: Once the feijoada is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Serve the feijoada hot, accompanied by white rice, sautéed collard greens, orange slices, and farofa on the side.
Enjoy this traditional Brazilian Feijoada, a soulful dish that brings the flavors of Brazil right to your table, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
