Feijoada Timorense (Portuguese-Timorese Red Bean, Pork/Beef, Cabbage & Pumpkin Stew) – Authentic Timor-Leste Recipe

Ingredients for Feijoada Timorense (Portuguese-Timorese Red Bean, Pork/Beef, Cabbage & Pumpkin Stew) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) red kidney beans, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups tender pork or beef cubes, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup cubed pumpkin and green cabbage
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with garlic
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Timor-Leste seasoning (bay leaves, cumin, coriander, olive oil, piripiri chili)
• 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 garlic for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in bay leaves, cumin, coriander, olive oil, piripiri chili and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Timor-Leste's kitchen.
3. Add red kidney beans and tender pork or beef cubes, 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 cubed pumpkin and green cabbage, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.