Paulista Feijoada

Introduction to Paulista Feijoada

Paulista Feijoada is a traditional Brazilian dish originating from the state of São Paulo. This rich and hearty stew is a cultural staple in Brazil, symbolizing the blend of African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences that define Brazilian cuisine. It is commonly served during gatherings and special occasions, allowing families and friends to come together while enjoying its robust flavors.

Feijoada was traditionally consumed by enslaved Africans who created a nutritious meal with beans and leftovers from the master's table. Over time, it evolved into the national dish of Brazil, with each region adding its unique twist. The "Paulista" version is known for its use of a variety of smoked and salted meats, including some local ingredients that give it a distinct taste.

Ingredients

• Black beans - 500g
• Pork belly - 300g
• Bacon - 200g
• Linguiça (Portuguese sausage) - 200g
• Smoked sausage - 200g
• Salted beef - 300g
• Bay leaves - 2
• Onions, chopped - 2 large
• Garlic cloves, minced - 4
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Orange - 1 (optional, for garnish)
• Parsley, chopped - 2 tablespoons
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Farofa - as a side dish
• Cooked rice - as a side dish

Preparation

Step 1: Prepping the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the black beans thoroughly under cold water. Soak them in a large bowl of water overnight or for at least 8 hours to soften. This will help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.

While the beans are soaking, prepare the meats. Cut the pork belly, bacon, linguiça, and smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces. For the salted beef, make sure to soak it in water for a few hours to remove excess salt, changing the water a few times.

Step 2: Cooking the Beans

In a large pot, add the soaked black beans and their soaking water. This flavorful liquid is key to a rich bean stew. Add the bay leaves and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Keep an eye on the water level and add more if necessary.

Step 3: Cooking the Meats

As the beans cook, heat the olive oil in a separate large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they are translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the cut meats: pork belly, bacon, linguiça, and smoked sausage. Cook them until they start to brown and render some of their fat. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once browned, add the salted beef and let everything cook together for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Combining Elements

When both the beans and the meats are ready, carefully transfer the meat mixture into the pot with the black beans. Stir everything together ensuring that the meats are evenly distributed throughout the beans. Simmer over low heat for another 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and adjust seasoning as necessary. If you like, squeeze in some orange juice for a touch of brightness and acidity.

Serving Paulista Feijoada

Serve your Paulista Feijoada warm, garnished with chopped parsley and slices of orange on the side. Traditionally, feijoada is accompanied by farofa and cooked rice which help to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Savor each bite of this hearty dish with family and friends. Paulista Feijoada is not just a meal, it's a celebration of Brazilian heritage and community spirit. For a complete experience, pair it with a refreshing drink like a Caipirinha and a side of sautéed collard greens.