Tutu de Feijão

Ingredients

• 400 gcooked beans
• 100 gcassava flour
• 100 gbacon — optional
• 1onion
• 2 clovesgarlic
• to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

1. Start by chopping 100 g of bacon into small pieces and set aside. Dice 1 onion finely and mince 2 cloves of garlic. These will form the base flavors of the dish, so ensure they are prepared before you begin cooking.
2. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or saucepan, add the bacon pieces over medium heat. Cook the bacon slowly, stirring occasionally, until it releases its fat and becomes crispy. This process should also infuse the pan with a rich, smoky aroma.
3. Once the bacon is crispy, add the diced onion to the pan. Stir the onion into the bacon and fat, allowing it to cook until it becomes translucent and soft. The onion should take on a slightly golden color, indicating that it has absorbed the bacon flavor.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pan, stirring it into the onion and bacon mixture. Cook for about a minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.
5. Introduce 400 g of cooked beans to the pan, stirring them into the base. Use a wooden spoon to gently mash some of the beans against the side of the pan, creating a creamy texture. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency for Tutu de Feijão.
6. Gradually sprinkle 100 g of cassava flour over the bean mixture, stirring constantly to incorporate it evenly. The flour will thicken the mixture and absorb the flavors. Continue stirring until the dish reaches a thick, cohesive consistency that holds together but is not dry.
7. Season the Tutu de Feijão with fine sea salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary, keeping in mind that the flavors should be balanced and savory.
8. Serve the Tutu de Feijão warm, ideally with a side of rice or greens. The dish should be creamy and flavorful, with the bacon providing a smoky depth and the cassava flour giving a unique texture. Enjoy this traditional Brazilian dish with family and friends.