Brazilian Feijoada

Background:

Feijoada is a traditional Brazilian stew prepared with black beans and a variety of pork and beef cuts. This hearty dish has its origins in the days of Brazilian slavery when slaves were given the leftover cuts of meat, such as ears, tails, and feet, which were then transformed into a flavorful and comforting meal.

Today, Feijoada is a beloved dish in Brazil, often enjoyed on special occasions and gatherings with family and friends. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a rich and savory stew that is typically served with rice, collard greens, and orange slices to complement the richness of the dish.

Ingredients:

• 500g black beans, dried
• 500g pork shoulder, diced
• 300g beef brisket, diced
• 200g smoked sausage, sliced
• 200g bacon, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 large onion, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Soak the black beans in water overnight.
2. In a large pot, combine the soaked black beans, pork shoulder, beef brisket, smoked sausage, bacon, garlic, bay leaves, and onion.
3. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2-3 hours, or until the beans and meat are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the Feijoada hot with steamed rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Enjoy this Brazilian Feijoada with your loved ones and experience the rich flavors of this classic dish!