Soups & Stews > International Soups & Stews > Latin American Soups & Stews > Caldo Verde Recipe (Portuguese Kale Soup)

Brazilian Black Bean Stew (Feijoada)

Feijoada is a hearty and flavorful black bean stew, considered the national dish of Brazil. This recipe offers a simplified version for home cooking, packed with smoky flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is a celebration of Brazilian cuisine, bringing the rich flavors of Feijoada to your table.

Prep Time
30 minutes (plus soaking time for beans)
Cook Time
2-3 hours
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 lb Dried Black Beans
  • 1 lb Smoked Sausage (Chorizo or Linguica)
  • 1 lb Smoked Pork Ribs
  • 4 slices Bacon
  • 1 Onion
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 2 Bay Leaves
  • 1 Orange
  • 8 cups Chicken Broth
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Soaking the Beans

Sort through the black beans and remove any debris. Rinse the beans thoroughly and soak them in a large pot with plenty of water for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. Drain and rinse the soaked beans before cooking.

Preparing the Meats

Cut the smoked sausage and bacon into 1-inch pieces. If the smoked pork ribs are large, cut them into smaller portions.

Sautéing Aromatics

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Building the Stew

Add the drained black beans, smoked sausage, smoked pork ribs, and bacon to the pot. Stir in the chicken broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans and meats are tender.

Adding the Orange

About 30 minutes before the end of cooking time, add the orange (halved or quartered) to the stew. This adds a subtle citrusy flavor that complements the smoky meats and beans.

Seasoning and Serving

Remove the orange and bay leaves from the stew. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the stew is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to reach desired consistency. Serve hot with white rice, collard greens, and farofa (toasted cassava flour).

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Please note: This is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used. Calories: Approximately 150-200kcal, Protein: 10-15g, Fat: 5-10g, Carbohydrates: 15-20g.

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Feijoada is a relatively high-fat and high-protein dish. Consider using lean cuts of pork to reduce the fat content. Serving with a side of rice and greens helps to balance the meal. Portion control is also important.

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FAQ

  • Can I use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot to make Feijoada?

    Yes, you can! Reduce the cooking time to about 45-60 minutes on high pressure, followed by a natural pressure release. Make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly.
  • What if I don't have smoked pork ribs?

    You can substitute with other smoked pork products, such as ham hocks or smoked shoulder.
  • Can I make this vegetarian?

    While traditional Feijoada is meat-based, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meats and adding smoked paprika and vegetable broth for a similar flavor profile. Consider adding vegetables like squash or sweet potatoes.