Description
A hearty and flavorful Brazilian Black Bean Stew that combines tender black beans with aromatic spices, sautéed vegetables, and a unique touch of toasted cassava flour. This comforting dish is enriched with fresh lime juice and cilantro, making it a perfect vegetarian meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Scale
Beans and Broth
- 2 cups black beans, soaked overnight
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
Spices
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
Finishers
- 1 cup toasted cassava flour
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Beans: Rinse and drain the black beans that have been soaked overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes, to build a flavorful base.
- Add Garlic and Bell Pepper: Stir in minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aromas.
- Incorporate Spices: Mix in cumin, paprika, and salt, cooking for an additional minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
- Combine Beans and Broth: Add the soaked black beans, bay leaf, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil to start the cooking process for the beans.
- Simmer Beans: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the stew gently for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender and fully cooked.
- Add Cassava Flour: Stir in the toasted cassava flour thoroughly until well combined. Cook for another 10 minutes to thicken the stew and integrate the flavors.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the stew. Stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for brightness and freshness before serving.
Notes
- Soaking the black beans overnight helps reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- Toasted cassava flour adds a unique flavor and thickens the stew without the use of grains.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and spices according to your taste preference.
- If you prefer a creamier stew, mash some beans against the pot’s side during simmering.
- This stew pairs well with rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.
