Feijoada à Moda de São Tomé (Island Red Beans with Pumpkin, Cabbage & Spices) – Authentic São Tomé and Príncipe Recipe

Ingredients for Feijoada à Moda de São Tomé (Island Red Beans with Pumpkin, Cabbage & Spices) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) creamy red kidney beans, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups cubed sweet pumpkin and shredded cabbage, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup steamed white rice and farofa
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with bay leaves
• 1.5 tbsp traditional São Tomé and Príncipe seasoning (garlic, caramelized onion, smoked paprika, coriander)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and bay leaves for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in garlic, caramelized onion, smoked paprika, coriander and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of São Tomé and Príncipe's kitchen.
3. Add creamy red kidney beans and cubed sweet pumpkin and shredded cabbage, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in steamed white rice and farofa, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.