Feijoada

The Brazilian national dish, feijoada (FAY-zwah-da) is a glorious black bean stew starring several smoked and seasoned pork products like ham and sausage and also fresh pork loin. It serves a crowd; simmers effortlessly in the oven, and any leftovers reheat beautifully. Serve with a big tossed green salad and crusty French bread.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 pound dried black beans
Water, enough to cover beans
6 cups water
1 pound boneless ham, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
1 pound boneless pork loin, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
3/4 pound hot Italian sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
3/4 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
1 pint cherry tomatoes, stemmed
1 onion, peeled and chopped
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
6 garlic cloves, crushed
1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest

Cooking Directions:

1. Cover beans with water and soak overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. In a large Dutch oven, or kettle with lid, combine drained beans, the 6 cups water and all remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil, skimming if necessary. Cover and transfer to oven.
4. Bake 1 1/2 hours, remove cover and bake another 30 minutes; stirring occasionally.
5. Serve immediately or cool slightly, cover and refrigerate overnight. Remove any fat from surface; reheat slowly on stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.

Makes 12 servings.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/12 of recipe): Calories 410 calories Protein 30 grams Fat 25 grams Sodium 780 milligrams Cholesterol 90 milligrams Saturated Fat 9 grams Carbohydrates 12 grams.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of National Pork Board.