Brazilian Gluten-Free Feijoada with Creamy Polenta and Crispy Plantains

Allergens

Contains no common allergens unless specified.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef brisket, cut into 1
• inch cubes 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight 1 large onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp tomato paste 2 bay leaves 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1/2 tsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp smoked paprika Salt and pepper to taste 4 cups beef broth, gluten
• free 1 tbsp olive oil For the polenta: 2 cups water 1 cup milk, dairy or non
• dairy 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup polenta, cornmeal 3 tbsp butter or dairy
• free alternative Ground black pepper to taste For the crispy plantains: 4 ripe but firm plantains 1 cup coconut oil, for frying Salt to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then add soaked black beans, bay leaves, and beef brisket pieces. Pour in beef broth, ensuring the ingredients are fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until beans are tender. While the feijoada cooks, prepare the polenta. In a medium saucepan, combine water, milk, and salt. Bring to a boil, then gradually whisk in polenta. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat, stir in butter or alternative, and season with black pepper. Cover and keep warm. For the crispy plantains, peel and slice them diagonally into 1/2 inch thick pieces. Heat coconut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry plantains until golden brown and slightly crispy on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Season with salt. When feijoada is ready, remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnishing each plate with a scoop of polenta and crispy plantains on the side.

Chef’s Insight

Feijoada is traditionally made with pork, but this gluten-free beef version offers a delicious alternative for those who prefer meat from cows.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the seasoning in this recipe according to your personal taste preferences.