Caldinho de Feijão
Bean soup. The boteco Amélia usually offers different kinds of Caldinhos.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Boteco Amélia
Caldinho de Feijão, a hearty bean soup, has its roots in the colonial era of Brazil. The dish evolved from the staple food of enslaved Africans – beans – and adapted with available local ingredients and culinary techniques, becoming a popular and accessible dish for all social classes.
Caldinho de Feijão is deeply ingrained in Brazilian culture, often served as a comforting and accessible appetizer or street food. It represents resourcefulness and the ability to create deliciousness from simple ingredients.
Popular Appetizer
It's a very common appetizer served in bars (botecos) and restaurants all over Brazil, usually in small cups or bowls.
Street Food Staple
Many street vendors sell it in disposable cups, making it a quick and affordable snack.
Comfort Food
It's considered comfort food, often associated with family gatherings and cozy evenings.
Regional Variations
While the basic recipe remains consistent, regional variations exist, with different beans, spices, and smoked meats used depending on the local cuisine.
Caldinho de Feijão is a flavorful and savory soup with earthy bean notes, smoky accents, and a hint of spice. Its comforting taste is often enhanced with toppings, adding layers of texture and flavor.
The primary flavor comes from the cooked beans, typically black beans or carioca beans, which are simmered until tender and then pureed. The soup is often seasoned with garlic, onion, bay leaf, and cumin, providing a savory and aromatic base. Smoked meats, such as bacon or sausage, are frequently added to impart a smoky depth. Hot sauce or chili peppers introduce a pleasant spiciness. Common toppings include chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, a drizzle of olive oil, and a squeeze of lime, which contribute freshness and complexity.
Soak the Beans
Soaking the beans overnight before cooking helps to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
Use Smoked Meats
Adding smoked meats, like bacon, calabresa sausage, or ham hocks, provides a rich and smoky flavor that elevates the soup.
Blend for Smoothness
Use a blender or immersion blender to achieve a smooth and creamy texture. For a slightly thicker consistency, remove a portion of the cooked beans before blending and add them back in after blending the rest.
Adjust Seasoning
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Salt, pepper, and hot sauce are essential for bringing out the flavors.
Get creative with toppings
Don't be afraid to experiment with toppings! Crispy bacon, chopped green onions, a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lime, croutons and a dollop of sour cream are all excellent additions.
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