Simple and Delicious Brazilian-Style Beans Recipe
Welcome to my kitchen, where I will share with you one of my favorite recipes: Brazilian-style Beans. If you have never tried Brazilian cuisine before, get ready for a treat! Brazilian food is influenced by Portuguese, African and Indigenous cultures that came together to create a unique and delicious gastronomy.
This recipe features the beloved “Feijoada”, which is the national dish of Brazil. Feijoada is a popular bean stew that originated in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro and is now enjoyed throughout the country.
The ingredients used in this dish are simple yet flavorful, and when combined they create a comforting and satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds straight to Brazil.
So if you’re ready to try something new and exciting, let’s gather our ingredients and start cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you ready to take your taste buds on a mouthwatering culinary journey to Brazil? Then you’ll love this Brazilian-Style Beans recipe! It is a delightful combination of flavors and spices that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro.
What makes this recipe so special? First, the fresh lime juice and cilantro add a bright and zesty flavor that perfectly balances the earthiness of the garlic, cumin, and bay leaves. Additionally, the bacon adds an indulgent smokiness to the dish that is hard to resist.
But what sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a hearty bean stew, or serve it with rice and sausage like they do in the traditional feijoada – Brazil’s national dish. You can also customize it to your liking by using pinto beans or carioca beans instead of black beans.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also easy to make – especially if you have a pressure cooker. And let’s not forget that it’s a nutritious dish too – full of fiber, protein, iron, and other essential nutrients.
So whether you’re craving comfort food or just want to try something new, this Brazilian-Style Beans recipe is perfect for you. Trust me, it won’t disappoint!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to prepare Brazilian-style beans recipe:
- 2 cups of dried black beans
- 8 cups of water
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of tomato puree
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnishing
- Fresh lime juice for serving
Note that you can use other types of beans such as carioca or pinto beans, but black beans are the most commonly used in Brazilian cuisine. Make sure to soak the beans overnight before cooking them.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have gathered all the fresh ingredients and necessary kitchen tools, let’s dive into making this Brazilian-style beans recipe!
Step 1: Soak the Beans
Firstly, soak 2 cups of dried black beans overnight in a bowl of cold water. This will help soften them up and ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Next, in a large pressure cooker or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook 8 oz of chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add to the pot 1 small chopped yellow onion and 3 cloves minced garlic to cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are soft and fragrant.
Step 4: Add Ingredients to Cooker
Afterwards, drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot with 8 cups of water, a can (14 oz) of tomato puree, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 2 whole bay leaves, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and freshly ground black pepper (to your liking).
Note: If you do not have a pressure cooker or Dutch oven, you can use a normal pot or even a slow cooker for this part.
Step 5: Cook Everything Together
Give everything a good stir before locking the lid onto the pressure cooker or covering it with aluminum foil if using a normal pot. For those using a slow cooker, simply set it to low heat.
For those using a pressure cooker: Cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes before allowing steam to release naturally.
For those using a normal pot or slow cooker: Let everything simmer for about an hour and a half (90 minutes), or until the beans are soft and tender.
Step 6: Add the Bacon Back In
Remove the bay leaves and add the crispy bacon back into the pot.
Step 7: Garnish with Fresh Ingredients
Finally, top the dish with a few sprigs of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve this Brazilian-style beans recipe as a hearty main course, especially when paired with rice or sautéed greens. Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
Making substitutions and variations is one of the great things about cooking. The same applies to the Brazilian-Style Beans Recipe. Here are some ideas to help you make this recipe your own.
Substitutions:
You can substitute bacon with smoked pork or turkey bacon, and carioca beans, pinto beans or any other black beans you might have on hand. If your grocery store doesn’t stock tomato puree, you can use tomato sauce or chopped canned tomatoes as a substitute. If you want a vegetarian version, you can skip the meat altogether.
Variations:
One variation of this dish is Slow Cooker Brazilian-Style Beans. Instead of using a pressure cooker, you can cook the beans in a slow cooker for added convenience. Simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 hours.
Another variation is Brazilian Black Bean Stew Recipe. To make this, add bay leaves to the stew and sausage for added flavor. Serve it over rice with fresh lime juice and plenty of fresh cilantro.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making Feijoada—the national dish of Brazil that typically consists of bean stew with pork or beef. This recipe calls for pinto beans instead of black beans, but otherwise follows the standard Brazilian style.
As always, don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and ingredients until you find what works best for you.
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving Brazilian-style beans, there are a variety of delicious options that will elevate your meal. This dish is often served with rice, making for a hearty and satisfying meal. In Brazil, the dish is usually served with white rice, but you can choose any type of rice you prefer.
To add some color and freshness to your plate, you can also serve Brazilian-style beans with a side of fresh salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumbers is an excellent choice.
If you want to incorporate some more traditional flavors into your meal, try serving the beans with some Farofa – toasted manioc flour spiced with bacon bits or other ingredients. It adds a salty and crunchy texture to the dish.
For those who like spice, adding hot sauce or red pepper flakes can bring an extra kick of flavor to the beans. A touch of fresh lime juice and cilantro leaves on top also add a nice touch of tanginess and freshness.
You can also pair Brazilian-style beans with different types of meat dishes such as grilled chicken or barbecued pork. The smokiness from the meat can complement the rich flavors in the bean stew perfectly.
Brazilian-style beans is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day- for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own, but when paired with the right sides and meats it becomes something truly special.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the great things about Brazilian-style beans is that they are incredibly versatile and can be stored and reheated for meals throughout the week. This savory and flavorful bean stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use, making it a great option for meal prep.
To make-ahead, allow the Brazilian-style beans to cool to room temperature before placing them into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to reheat, simply remove from the refrigerator or freezer and follow the instructions below:
For Refrigerator Storage:
– In a saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the beans.
– Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
– Serve immediately.
For Freezer Storage:
– Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
– In a saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the beans and prevent sticking.
– Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
– Serve immediately.
To enhance flavor upon reheating, add fresh lime juice, fresh cilantro, fresh ground black pepper and salt to taste. This will give your beans more depth and kick than they originally had. Avoid garnishing with extra bacon since it may get soggy upon reheating.
Now you’re set with a batch of ready-to-go Brazilian-style beans that can easily be heated up whenever you need an easy, delicious meal on short notice!
Tips for Perfect Results
Brazilian-style beans are a classic dish that can be intimidating to cook for the first time. Even though the recipe is quite simple, there are some tips and tricks that will ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.
One of the most important tips is to use high-quality ingredients. Make sure to use fresh vegetables and herbs, such as garlic, onion, cilantro, and lime juice. The quality of the bacon, if you’re using it, can also make a big difference in flavor. Since bacon is a main component of this dish, it’s important to invest in good quality bacon.
Another important tip is to season generously with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process, starting with the soaking water for the beans. This will help to bring out the flavors in all of the ingredients.
When it comes to cooking the beans themselves, there are two important points to keep in mind. First, soak the beans overnight in cold water before cooking them. This will help to reduce cooking time and ensure that they cook evenly. Second, when cooking the beans, add enough water to cover them by at least an inch. This will help ensure that they are completely cooked through.
If you’re using a pressure cooker, it’s crucial to follow instructions carefully and release steam before opening the lid. Overcooking can cause the beans to become mushy and lose their texture.
For those who want a bit more depth of flavor in their dish, adding smoked pork or smoked sausage can give your stew a delicious smoky taste that pairs perfectly with black beans.
Lastly, don’t forget about presentation! Brazilian-style beans are traditionally served with rice, but you can also think about garnishing with fresh cilantro or sliced lime for an extra pop of color and flavor on top.
By following these tips and tricks you’ll be able to make a traditional Brazilian-style black bean stew like a pro!
FAQ
As you prepare to make these Brazilian-Style Beans, you may have some questions about the recipe. Here are some frequently asked questions that may help guide you.
Are Brazilian beans healthy?
Beans are a staple of Brazilian cuisine and are commonly found in the famous rice and beans dish. These legume seeds are a great source of protein, high in fiber, and low in fat.
Which type of bean is the most popular type eaten in Brazil?
In Brazil, the choice of beans often varies based on the region. However, the go-to and widely consumed option for the average Brazilian is the feijão Carioca, which is also known as pinto bean.
What is Brazil beans?
When it comes to coffee, Brazil is on top of the game. Being the biggest cultivator and exporter of coffee beans worldwide, it is no wonder that their rich, robust flavor is highly sought after. The Brazilian coffee beans have a distinct taste that’s unmistakable and has gained popularity among coffee lovers. The beans are grown in abundance and are globally recognized for their premium quality and, in some cases, are associated with the port they are transported through.
What does feijoada consist of?
Feijoada is a savory stew prepared with black beans and various smoked and salted meats like carne-seca and smoked pork ribs. This classic Brazilian dish also features affordable cuts like pig’s feet, ears, and tails as well as beef tongue.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Brazilian-Style Beans recipe is a delicious and nutritious option for those who love to explore international cuisine. It is a versatile recipe that can be made in various ways, depending on your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand. The combination of dried black beans, smoked pork or bacon, garlic, onion, tomato puree, and spices like ground cumin makes for an excellent bean stew that can be served with rice or eaten on its own as a meal.
This dish is one of Brazil’s most popular recipes and has become part of the country’s identity. Brazilians are proud of their feijoada, which is considered their national dish, and with good reason. This hearty stew is perfect for large gatherings or family meals and will impress anyone who tries it.
In this article, you’ve learned how to make Brazilian-Style Beans following an easy-to-follow recipe with detailed instructions and tips for perfect results. You’ve also learned about substitutions and variations you can try to make this recipe your own. Additionally, you know how to serve and pair this dish with other foods and how long it can be stored in the fridge or freezer.
Overall, I would highly recommend trying your hand at making Brazilian-Style Beans. Not only will you be adding a new dimension to your culinary repertoire, but you’ll also be indulging in a flavorful dish that has been enjoyed by generations of Brazilians. So go ahead – grab some black beans and get cooking – I guarantee you won’t regret it!
Brazilian-Style Beans Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried black beans
- 8 ounces bacon, chopped
- 1 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 cup canned tomato puree
- salt
- fresh ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (or to taste)
Instructions
- Pick over and rinse the beans; set aside.
- In a large, heavy pot, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until fat is rendered. Add the onion and cook, stirring frequently, until soft but not browned, about 5 minutes. Add the beans, garlic, cumin, bay leaves, brown sugar and enough water to cover by about 2 inches. Cook until the beans are tender. .
- Add the tomato puree and salt and pepper to taste and simmer until the flavors are well blended, about 20 minutes. Just before serving, stir in the cilantro and lime juice.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
Recommended Recipes Just For You
None found
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.