Dear food lovers and connoisseurs,

Are you ready to explore the traditional Brazilian cuisine? I’m thrilled to present to you my version of a classic Brazilian dish – the Brazilian Black Bean Stew, or as it’s known in Portuguese, “Feijoada.”

Feijoada is considered the national dish of Brazil and has a rich history and cultural significance. Originally, Feijoada was a dish made by slaves using leftover parts of pigs that were not given to their owners. However, over time, this dish became elevated as it was enjoyed by all classes of people in Brazil, becoming a staple of Brazilian cuisine.

My recipe takes inspiration from the classic Brazilian Feijoada but with a modern American twist that makes use of a slow cooker. Slow cooking allows for the flavors to meld together over time, creating the ultimate hearty and flavorful dish that will make your taste buds sing.

With a flavorful combination of dried black beans, smoked ham hocks, onions, garlic cloves, chicken broth, brewed coffee and water – this slow cooker Brazilian Black Bean Stew recipe is one you won’t want to miss. The aroma and flavor will transport you straight to Brazil and have you feeling like you’re enjoying your meal on the streets of Rio De Janeiro.

So get ready to take your tastebuds on a journey with my slow cooker Brazilian Black Bean Stew recipe – it’s hearty enough for dinner but also perfect for leftovers throughout the week. Stay tuned for the ingredients list and step-by-step instructions so you can make your own version of this delicious dish in the comfort of your own home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Brazilian Black Bean Stew, Another Version - Slow Cooker — Brazilian Black Bean Stew, Another Version – Slow Cooker

Are you looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to make? Look no further than this Brazilian Black Bean Stew recipe! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love it:

First, it’s a classic Brazilian dish that is widely beloved in the country – and for good reason. Feijoada is often considered the national dish of Brazil, and it has been enjoyed for generations as a hearty and delicious meal. By trying this recipe, you can bring a little bit of Brazil into your own kitchen and experience the tastes and aromas of this beloved cuisine.

Second, the recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adjust it to fit your preferences and dietary requirements easily. If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, simply swap out the ham hocks for smoked tofu or another plant-based protein. If you’re watching your salt intake, feel free to use unsalted broth or cut back on the added salt in the recipe. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Third, this recipe is easy to make in a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen cooking. Simply add all of the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it simmer away for 4-10 hours (depending on your desired level of tenderness). The result will be a rich and savory stew that pairs perfectly with cooked rice or crusty bread.

Finally, this dish is packed with flavor thanks to the combination of black beans, garlic cloves, onions, smoked ham hocks, chicken broth, brewed coffee (yes, coffee!), and other spices. Each bite will be bursting with smoky, peppery goodness that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

In short, there are many reasons why you’ll love this Brazilian Black Bean Stew recipe – from its rich flavor profile to its versatility and ease of preparation. Give it a try and see for yourself why it has become a staple in Brazilian cuisine!

Ingredient List

Satisfy your taste buds with this Brazilian black bean stew recipe!

To make this Brazilian Black Bean Stew, you will need the following ingredients:

1 lb dried black beans
3 garlic cloves, chopped
2 onions, chopped
2 smoked ham hocks
4 cups chicken broth
4 cups water
1 cup brewed coffee
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:
– Cooked rice
– Fresh cilantro leaves

Most of these items should be easily available at your local supermarket. It is important that you look for dried black beans specifically as black beans are key to the traditional flavor and texture of this national dish of Brazil. The smoked ham hocks add a depth of smoky richness to the stew. Additionally, it is important that you use chicken broth instead of using only water as the broth helps to add more depth and flavor to the dish.

The Recipe How-To

Now comes the fun part – cooking! The instructions for making Brazilian black bean stew in a slow cooker are very easy to follow.

Ingredients

1 pound dried black beans
6 cups of water
4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
2 large, finely chopped onions
4 minced garlic cloves
1 pound smoked ham hocks or chopped, salted smoked pork
1/2 cup brewed strong coffee
1 tablespoon olive oil
Cooked white or brown rice
Freshly chopped cilantro for topping

Step 1: Preparing the Beans

First and foremost, rinse the dried black beans well in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Add rinsed beans to your slow cooker bowl and add enough cold water to cover them by about an inch. Let these soak in the overnight fridge or at least for half an hour before beginning so that they are plumper and cook evenly.

Step 2: Cooking

After preparing the beans, drain them from water then return them to a slow cooker. Next, add in the low sodium chicken broth, finely chopped onions, minced garlic cloves, smoked ham hocks (or salted smoked pork), brewed coffee, olive oil and enough water to cover everything.

Mix all of these ingredients together until everything is well combined. Then, set your slow cooker to cook for about 10 hours on LOW heat or until the beans are soft and tender.

Step 3: Serving

When serving this dish, spoon a portion of hot cooked rice into a bowl and top with slow-cooked black bean stew over it. Finally, garnish it with freshly chopped cilantro for added flavor.

Now you’re ready to enjoy traditional Brazilian black bean stew!

Substitutions and Variations

Are you looking to switch it up with your Brazilian Black Bean Stew recipe? There are many variations and substitutions that you can try. Here are a few suggestions:

– Protein: While smoked ham hocks are the traditional protein used in feijoada, Brazil’s national dish, you can substitute them with smoked turkey legs or pork shoulder if you prefer. You can also experiment with adding sausage or bacon.

– Vegetables: For an extra kick of flavor and nutrition, try adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and tomatoes to your stew. These additions will give your black bean stew a fresh taste and vibrant color.

– Spice: If you want to add some heat to your Brazilian Black Bean Stew, use hot sauce or freshly chopped chili peppers to spice things up. Cumin and paprika will also add depth of flavor and complement the smokiness of the meat.

– Liquid base: While chicken broth is commonly used in this recipe, you could swap it out for beef or vegetable broth depending on your preference. Brewed coffee or beer can also be added for more depth of flavor.

– Beans: Although dried black beans are the star ingredient in this dish, you could still use canned black beans. If using canned beans, remove about 1/4 cup of liquid from the can before using it in the recipe.

Remember that these variations may alter the taste and texture of your Brazilian Black Bean Stew, but they provide the opportunity for a personalized taste to suit your preferences.To make sure that you get the desired results with any substitutions or alterations mentioned, feel free to experiment and adjust according to taste preferences.

Serving and Pairing

Picture yourself sitting in a cozy Brazilian restaurant, surrounded by lively music and warm conversation. You’re eagerly anticipating the arrival of the waitress who carries a steaming hot pot of Brazil’s most beloved dish – Feijoada. As she ladles the bean stew onto your plate, you can’t wait to dig in and savor every last bite. But what else can make this dining experience more satisfying? The answer lies in the perfect pairings.

Serving and pairing play an essential role in enhancing any meal’s flavor and texture – even for a simple bowl of stew. Traditionally, Brazilian Feijoada is served with rice, farofa (toasted manioc flour), sliced oranges, and sautéed collard greens. The combination of these accompaniments creates a symphony of flavors that complement the richness of the stew and balance its savory taste.

Start with a heaping scoop of cooked white rice in your plate, pour generously some feijoada stew over it, then sprinkle over some freshly chopped cilantro for extra flavor before diving in for that first spoonful. The nutty and grainy texture of farofa makes a perfect crunchy contrast to the creaminess of this black bean stew. Squeeze an orange wedge over the rice or beans to add a zesty note that cuts through the meaty flavors.

In Brazil, feijoada is often paired with beer or caipirinha (Brazil’s national cocktail made with cachaça, lime juice, sugar, and ice). While such options may excite some diners, others might prefer a caffeine boost or a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage. Brewed coffee is another popular choice as it can complement the dish’s striking boldness while standing up to its smoky intensity.

As you delve deeper into feijoada’s increasingly popular cuisine around the world, it’s essential to remember that pairing preference is subjective. Don’t be afraid to experiment, get creative with what you have, and let your taste buds guide you. Whether you’re in Brazil or miles away from the country, the right pairing can make all the difference in turning a good meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

Once you’ve made your delicious Brazilian Black Bean Stew, you’ll want to know how best to keep and reheat it to enjoy the flavors over the next few days. Luckily, this stew is perfect for meal prep and can be easily stored and reheated without any compromise on taste or texture.

To make ahead of time, allow the stew to cool completely before placing it into airtight containers. You can refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, the best method is to heat slowly over low heat in a pot on the stove or in a slow cooker.

Another option is to microwave individual servings, but be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

If you’re reheating from frozen, allow plenty of time for the stew to defrost fully before reheating. You can do this by transferring it from the freezer into the fridge and leaving it overnight.

When storing leftovers, be sure to keep cooked rice separate from the stew until you’re ready to eat it. This will prevent any sogginess or loss of texture.

Overall, preparing your Brazilian Black Bean Stew ahead of time is a great way to save time during busy weekdays without compromising on taste. Whether you choose to store it in the refrigerator or freezer, remember that slow reheating over low heat is key to maintaining its rich flavor and satisfying texture in every bite.

Tips for Perfect Results

One of the most important tips for achieving perfect results when making Brazilian Black Bean Stew in a slow cooker is to use good quality ingredients. Fresh ingredients, such as garlic cloves, onions, and fresh cilantro, will make a huge difference in the overall taste and complexity of the dish. Additionally, using smoked ham hocks instead of regular ham shanks or bacon will add a depth of flavor that cannot be replicated.

Another key tip is to soak your dried black beans overnight before you start cooking. While it may be tempting to skip this step, it can make a huge difference in the texture and appearance of your final dish. Soaking the beans helps to plump them up, which means they will cook faster, more evenly, and with less chance of bursting.

Once you’ve soaked your beans, drain and rinse them thoroughly in cold water. Then add them to your slow cooker along with chicken broth or water, brewed coffee for an extra layer of flavor, onions, garlic cloves, and smoked ham hocks. Be sure to cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or until the beans are soft.

While you’re waiting for your stew to cook, resist the urge to lift the lid too often. Each time you do so, heat escapes from the slow cooker and extends the cooking time. If you absolutely must check on your dish while it’s cooking, try to limit yourself to once or twice during the process.

If you find that your stew is coming out too watery after 4 hours or so, remove the lid and continue cooking uncovered for another half hour or until the desired consistency has been reached. This technique will evaporate some of the liquid without overcooking the beans.

Finally, before serving your Brazilian Black Bean Stew with cooked rice, garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and color. These simple tips will help you achieve a flavorful and authentic black bean stew that will transport your taste buds straight to Brazil.

FAQ

As any good recipe should, this Brazilian Black Bean Stew Slow Cooker Recipe might raise some questions. From ingredient substitutions to cooking times, I’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions and answered them below. So, let’s get started!

What is the national dish of Brazil?

The origins of the term feijoada can be traced back to the Portuguese word feijão, which means beans. This dish is essentially a stew made with black beans and a mix of various salted and smoked pork and beef items, ranging from carne-seca to smoked pork spareribs.

What is a Brazilian stew of pork and black beans over rice?

Feijoada is a beloved stew in Brazil, made with black beans and pork, and often accompanied by farofa, or toasted cassava flour. It is considered by many to be the country’s quintessential comfort food and is even referred to as the national dish of Brazil. Its name is derived from “feijão,” the Portuguese word for black beans, which form the backbone of this delicious dish.

What is the national dish of Rio de Janeiro?

Feijoada is a popular dish in Brazil, and is considered to be a national favorite. Its origins can be traced back to Recife in the state of Pernambuco, and it is particularly famous in Rio de Janeiro. However, other regions of Brazil also have their own unique regional dishes.

Is Feijoada good for keto?

Feijoada is a popular dish in Brazil that is known as the country’s national dish. Although it has Portuguese origins and is named after the Portuguese word for ‘beans’, feijão, the classic recipe includes legumes, which makes it unsuitable for those following a Keto diet.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, Brazilian black bean stew is not just another recipe, it’s a cultural masterpiece that tells the story of Brazil. This slow cooker version of a traditional Feijoada Brazilian black bean stew is one of many versions, but always includes black beans, pork, and a variety of spices to create a bold and flavorful stew. With the easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips provided in this article, you’ll be able to recreate this classic Brazilian dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Whether you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal to share with family or impressing guests with your culinary skills, this slow cooker Brazilian black bean stew is sure to become your go-to recipe. From the rich aroma to the hearty texture, every bite tells its own story.

So why not take a trip to Brazil without leaving your home and discover the magic behind this national dish? Give this slow cooker Brazilian black bean stew recipe a try today and experience the flavors of Brazil like never before. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed!

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About Dora @ Kitchen on Cary

Dora

Dora is a chef well-versed in Brazilian and American cuisine. After a hard day's work in the kitchen of her restaurant, she finds the time to jot down recipes for her food blog. Her recipes are sure to delight foodies everywhere, as she strives to make each one unique and enjoyable to read.

Easy and delicious Brazilian black bean stew recipe