Feijoada: Authentic Brazilian Black Bean Stew Recipe

Feijoada: A Hearty Brazilian Black Bean Stew

Feijoada is a beloved Brazilian black bean stew, a carnival dish rich in history and full of savory flavor.

What Is Feijoada?

Originating in Brazil, feijoada combines tender black beans with assorted meats like pork shoulder and linguiça, simmered low and slow to create a deeply flavored, comforting stew.

Ingredients for Authentic Feijoada

Core Ingredients

• 1 lb dried black beans (feijão preto), soaked overnight
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 oz bacon, diced
• 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 smoked sausages (e.g., linguiça), sliced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 orange, halved (optional, for mild acidity)
• 6 cups water or low-sodium broth
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

• Beef jerky (carne seca) for an authentic touch
• Chicken thighs, cubed
• Chorizo or spicy sausage
• Smoked paprika or chili flakes

How to Make Feijoada

1. Prep the beans: Drain soaked beans and rinse under cold water. Soaking softens them and cuts cooking time.
2. Bacon base: In a heavy pot, heat olive oil. Add diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon, leaving rendered fat.
3. Sear the meats: Add pork shoulder to the pot, browning all sides. Toss in sausage slices and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Aromatics: Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant (2–3 minutes).
5. Combine & simmer: Return bacon to the pot. Add beans, bay leaves, orange halves, and water or broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Low-and-slow cook: Reduce heat to low. Cover partially and simmer for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and stew is thick.
7. Finish & rest: Discard orange halves and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Soak wisely: Use cold water and change it once for cleaner-tasting beans.
• Flavor booster: Squeeze orange juice into the stew for a bright note.
• Next-day magic: Feijoada tastes even better the next day—reheat gently.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

Traditionally served over steaming white rice with collard greens, orange slices, and a side of farofa (toasted cassava flour). Pair with a crisp caipirinha or sparkling water for an authentic Brazilian feast.

Vegetarian Feijoada

• Omit all meats and increase smoked paprika.
• Add cubed tofu, mushrooms, and extra bell peppers.
• Finish with a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.

Enjoy your feijoada and savor the rich, comforting flavors of this classic Brazilian black bean stew.

Original recipe: Allrecipes Feijoada