Feijoada (Brazilian dish)

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Feijoada à brasileira 1

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Feijoada is a traditional Brazilian dish that is widely considered the national dish of Brazil. It is a hearty stew of black beans with a variety of salted pork or beef products, such as pork trimmings, bacon, smoked pork ribs, and at times, sausage. The name "feijoada" comes from the word "feijão," which means "bean" in Portuguese.

History

Feijoada has its origins in the colonial period of Brazil. It is believed to have been created by enslaved Africans who adapted European stews using local ingredients. Over time, it became a staple in Brazilian cuisine and is now enjoyed by people of all social classes.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of feijoada include:

• Black beans
• Various cuts of pork (such as pork belly, pork shoulder, and pork ribs)
• Beef (such as dried beef and beef tongue)
• Sausage (such as linguiça)
• Bay leaves
• Garlic
• Onion
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper

Preparation

Feijoada is typically prepared by soaking the black beans overnight and then cooking them with the various meats. The meats are often cooked separately to remove excess fat and then added to the beans. The dish is simmered for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together. It is traditionally served with white rice, collard greens, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and orange slices.

Cultural Significance

Feijoada is more than just a dish; it is a cultural symbol in Brazil. It is often served during large family gatherings and special occasions. In many regions, it is customary to eat feijoada on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The dish is also popular in Portuguese cuisine, with variations found in Portugal and other former Portuguese colonies.

Variations

While the traditional Brazilian feijoada is made with black beans, there are regional variations that use different types of beans and meats. For example, in the state of Minas Gerais, feijoada is often made with kidney beans.

Related Pages

• Brazilian cuisine
• Portuguese cuisine
• Black beans
• Pork
• Sausage
• Farofa
• Collard greens

See Also

• List of Brazilian dishes
• National dishes