Feijoada Timorese
A hearty and comforting bean stew, influenced by Portuguese cuisine, featuring a rich combination of various meats, beans, and vegetables. This dish is a staple in Timor-Leste, often enjoyed during gatherings and family meals.

๐ง Ingredients
- 2 cups Dried kidney beans(soaked overnight)
- 500 g Pork shoulder(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 200 g Pork belly(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 150 g Chorizo sausage(sliced)
- 200 g Beef stew meat(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 Large yellow onion(chopped)
- 4 Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 Carrots(sliced)
- 2 Bay leaves
- 1 tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Cumin powder
- 1.5 liters Chicken or vegetable stock
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(to taste)
- 0.25 cup Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Rinse the soaked kidney beans and place them in a large pot. Cover with fresh water and bring to a boil. Cook for 10 minutes, then drain and rinse.
๐ก Tip: This step helps to remove any impurities from the beans. - 2
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the pork shoulder, pork belly, and beef stew meat in batches. Remove the meat and set aside.
๐ก Tip: Don't overcrowd the pot; browning in batches ensures a good sear. - 3
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sautรฉ until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. - 4
Return the browned meats to the pot. Add the drained beans, sliced carrots, bay leaves, smoked paprika, and cumin powder. Stir to combine.
๐ก Tip: Ensure all ingredients are well distributed. - 5
Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans and meat are tender.
๐ก Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 6
Add the sliced chorizo sausage during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
๐ก Tip: Adding chorizo later prevents it from becoming too mushy. - 7
Season the feijoada with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
๐ก Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning carefully. - 8
Ladle the feijoada into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with steamed rice.
๐ก Tip: Feijoada is often even better the next day.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โFor a richer flavor, you can add other cuts of pork like trotters or ears.
- โIf you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot.
- โThis dish can be made ahead of time and reheated; the flavors deepen overnight.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a bay leaf or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Serve with slices of orange on the side, which is a traditional accompaniment.
๐ท๏ธ Tags
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