Rio de Janeiro-Style Feijoada

This version captures the deep, savory essence of Brazil's national dish while prioritizing organic sources and removing industrial additives.

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Ingredients

4 servings

Clean swaps

Every ingredient in this recipe, ready to shop — including our clean upgrade picks.

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organic black beans
organic black beans Shop →
organic pork shoulder, cubed
organic pork shoulder, cubed Shop →
avocado oil
avocado oil Shop →
large organic yellow onion, diced
large organic yellow onion, diced Shop →
organic garlic, minced
organic garlic, minced Shop →
dried bay leaves
dried bay leaves Shop →
sea salt
sea salt Shop →
cracked black pepper
cracked black pepper Shop →

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What you'll need

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the soaked beans thoroughly.
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic, pork shoulder, and beef chuck to the pot. Season with sea salt, cracked pepper, and bay leaves.
  4. Sear the meat for 5 minutes to develop flavor.
  5. Add the beans and enough water or bone broth to cover by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
  6. Simmer partially covered for 60 minutes until the beans begin to soften.
  7. Stir in the nitrate-free smoked pork loin and orange slices.
  8. Continue simmering for another 45-60 minutes until meat is tender and sauce has thickened.

FAQ

Is this Rio de Janeiro-Style Feijoada gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use a pressure cooker to save time?

Absolutely. You can reduce active simmering time by using a pressure cooker for about 45-60 minutes once the liquid reaches pressure.

Can I substitute pork with beef or other meats in this Rio de Janeiro-Style Feijoada recipe?

Absolutely! You can use beef, chicken, or even a mixture of different meats. Adjust the cooking time and seasoning to suit the new ingredients for best results.

How long can I store leftovers and how should I prepare Rio de Janeiro-Style Feijoada in advance?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge or freeze them for up to 3 months. Prepare it ahead by cooking all ingredients, then reheat with additional broth just before serving.

What is key to achieving a smooth texture when blending black beans in this recipe?

To achieve a smooth texture, ensure the beans are fully cooked and soft before blending. Also, adding a bit of water or broth during blending can help create a creamy consistency.

Why is using organic ingredients considered healthier than the restaurant version with industrial additives?

Using organic ingredients reduces exposure to chemical pesticides and preservatives, supports sustainable farming practices, and often results in higher nutritional value compared to industrially processed meals.

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