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Easy Brazilian Black Beans Recipe

When it comes to hearty, flavour-packed meals that encapsulate the essence of Brazilian cuisine, few dishes can compete with a classic serving of black beans, or "feijão preto". This staple ingredient is not only an excellent source of protein and fibre but also lends itself to a variety of recipes. Whether served as a side dish, in a stew, or even on its own, Brazilian black beans are versatile and satisfying. Here, we’ll guide you through an easy recipe that will have you cooking up a delightful dish in no time.

Ingredients

To make this easy Brazilian black beans recipe, you will need:

• 400g dried black beans (or 2 tins of black beans for a quicker option)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken stock (or water, if the beans are tinned)
• Chopped fresh coriander (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preparation of Dried Beans:
   If you are using dried black beans, begin by rinsing them thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. It’s advisable to soak the beans overnight in a large bowl of water, which helps to soften them and reduces cooking time. After soaking, drain and rinse again.

2. Cooking the Beans:
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

   For added depth of flavour, sprinkle in the cumin and smoked paprika, stirring to combine. If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of chilli powder.

3. Simmering the Dish:
   Pour in the soaked black beans along with the bay leaf and 2 cups of stock (or water). If you’ve opted for tinned beans, simply add them, drained, with the stock, and slightly reduce the cooking time.

   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours if using dried beans, or for about 20-30 minutes if using tinned beans, until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add additional water or stock if the mixture becomes too dry.

4. Seasoning:
   Once the beans are cooked, taste and season with salt and pepper. Remember, if you have used stock, it may already contain salt, so adjust accordingly.

5. Serving:
   Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the black beans into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped coriander. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze over, adding a bright, zesty note that beautifully complements the richness of the beans.

Enjoying Your Brazilian Black Beans

These easy Brazilian black beans are best enjoyed with a side of rice, fried plantains, or even in tacos as a delicious filling. They can also be enjoyed as a hearty vegan dish on their own or served alongside grilled meats for a more traditional Portuguese-Brazilian feast.

Variations

Feel free to personalise your black beans with additional ingredients such as diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or diced carrots for extra nutrition and flavour. For a smoky twist, you may also incorporate a piece of smoked sausage during the cooking process, removing it before serving.

This easy Brazilian black beans recipe offers a glimpse into the heart of Brazilian home cooking, where simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is as comforting as it is nourishing. Give it a try, and enjoy a taste of Brazil in your own kitchen!

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