Preparation

Feijoada is Brazil's legendary black bean stew, traditionally slow-cooked with various pork parts and served at festive gatherings. Your mug version captures the smoky, garlicky essence without requiring an entire Saturday or a whole pig.

Quick-Cooking Brazilian Soul:

1. If using instant rice, place it in your mug with 3 tablespoons water and microwave for 1 minute. Set aside.
2. In the same mug (or push the rice to one side), combine black beans, remaining water, garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin.
3. Microwave for 2 minutes until heated through and slightly bubbling.
4. Use a fork to roughly mash about half the beans against the side of the mug—this creates a creamy texture while keeping some whole beans for interest.
5. Stir in olive oil, lime juice, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. If you cooked rice separately, add it back now, or top with crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
7. Finish with cilantro and a dollop of sour cream if using.

The smoked paprika does heavy lifting here, providing that deep, almost meaty flavor that makes you forget this is just canned beans. The lime juice adds Brazilian brightness, and mashing some of the beans creates a satisfying texture. This is stick-to-your-ribs comfort that happens to be incredibly nutritious.