Feijoada Recipe – Mozambique's Hearty Stew

Name: Feijoada
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 3-5 servings
Cuisine: Mozambique
Ingredients: bay leaves; bell pepper; black pepper; chicken; cloves garlic; cumin; g bacon; g black beans; g chorizo sausage; g pork shoulder cubed; g smoked pork ribs; onion; paprika; salt adjust; tomatoes; vegetable broth; vegetable oil

Feijoada is a traditional Mozambican stew that showcases a delightful blend of black beans and assorted meats, often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations. This hearty dish reflects the country's rich culinary heritage, combining flavors from African, Portuguese, and indigenous cuisine. Typically served on special occasions, Feijoada brings people together around the table, embodying the spirit of camaraderie and warmth in Mozambican culture.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~480 kcal / serving

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) black beans
1/2 lb (225 g) chorizo sausage, sliced
1/2 lb (225 g) smoked pork ribs
1/2 lb (225 g) bacon, chopped
1/2 lb (225 g) pork shoulder, cubed
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

Prepare the Beans

Soak the black beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse before using.

Cook the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Add the bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.

Add the chorizo, smoked pork ribs, and pork shoulder to the pot. Cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside with the bacon.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.

Combine and Simmer

Return the meats to the pot with the sautéed vegetables.

Add the chopped tomatoes, bay leaves, paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt.

Stir to combine, then add the soaked black beans and the chicken or vegetable broth.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors are well combined. Stir occasionally.

Finish

Once the beans and meats are tender, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Serve

Serve the Feijoada hot, traditionally accompanied by rice, collard greens, and orange slices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Feijoada?

Feijoada is a robust stew made with black beans and various meats, often including pork and sausage. It's a beloved dish in several cultures, each with its unique twist.

Where does Feijoada come from?

Feijoada is a staple dish in Mozambique, deeply rooted in its culinary traditions and influenced by Portuguese cuisine.

What are the main ingredients in Feijoada?

Key ingredients include black beans, chorizo sausage, smoked pork ribs, bacon, and pork shoulder, along with onion, garlic, and bell pepper.

How long does Feijoada take to make?

The total time to make Feijoada is approximately 600-650 minutes.

What do you serve with Feijoada?

Feijoada is best served with rice, sliced oranges, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Feijoada