Sautéed Manteiguinha Bean from Pará with Dried Meat: A Flavor Journey from Northern Brazil
Brazilian cuisine, vast and exuberant, gifts us with an infinity of dishes that celebrate the diversity of our ingredients and the richness of our regional traditions. Among the gastronomic jewels the country boasts, stands out the stirred Paraense manteiguinha bean with dried meat, a delicacy that evokes the authentic flavor of Northern Brazil, with its rustic nuances and unmistakable taste.
This dish, which at first glance may seem simple, reveals itself as a complex symphony of flavors and textures, where the delicacy of the Paraense manteiguinha bean meets the intensity and marked personality of dried meat. The result is a stirred manteiguinha bean dish that conquers the palate, whether at a casual family lunch or a special dinner to impress guests.

The Paraense Manteiguinha Bean: A Creamy Jewel of the Lower Amazon
The protagonist of this recipe is the Paraense manteiguinha bean, a unique variety that almost always reaches us from Santarém, in the heart of the lower Amazon. Just look at its appearance to understand the origin of its name: small grains, delicate cream color, reminiscent of the softness of butter. On the palate, its name’s promise is confirmed: an incredibly creamy texture and a subtly sweet flavor that differentiates it from other beans.
For a long time, the Paraense manteiguinha bean was a hidden gastronomic treasure, accessible only to those who ventured into the corners of the Amazon region or fortunate ones who received it as a gift from someone coming from Pará. Its production, once modest and nearly declining, today lives a new chapter thanks to the inspiring work of initiatives like that of producer Joanna Martins, who, in partnership with Manioca, boosted local production, connecting small farmers to the national market. Today, the manteiguinha bean is accessible to all Brazilians, allowing us to enjoy its uniqueness and versatility in our kitchens.
Dried Meat: Intense Flavor and Brazilian Tradition in the Stirred Dish
To harmonize with the delicacy of the manteiguinha bean, we chose dried meat, an emblematic ingredient of Brazilian cuisine, especially appreciated in the North and Northeast of the country. Dried meat, also known as sun-dried meat or charque in other regions, undergoes a salting and sun-drying process that gives it an intense flavor and characteristic fibrous texture. Its presence in the stirred manteiguinha bean dish offers a fascinating gustatory and textural contrast: the salty and shredded dried meat balances the softness and creaminess of the bean, creating a complete sensory experience.
Dried meat carries centuries of history and tradition. Originating from food preservation techniques developed by indigenous peoples and refined by colonizers, it became a fundamental ingredient in sertanejo and northeastern cuisine, adapting to climatic conditions and resource availability. In the stirred manteiguinha bean dish, dried meat is not just an ingredient but a link to Brazilian culture, with its roots and authentic flavors.
A Stirred Dish Rich in Flavors and Textures: The Essence of the Recipe
O stirred Paraense manteiguinha bean with dried meat, as its name suggests, is a dish that values the harmonious mixture of ingredients, textures, and flavors. The creamy base of the manteiguinha bean, carefully cooked to achieve perfect tenderness, combines with the intense and slightly salty flavor of shredded dried meat. The aromatic touch of the sauté, with onion, garlic, tomato, and bell pepper, elevates the dish’s complexity, while the finishing with fresh scallion and chopped red chili pepper offers freshness and a spicy note that accentuates the flavors.
This stirred manteiguinha bean dish is not just a side dish. It presents itself as a complete main course, able to star a memorable meal. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed on various occasions, from everyday meals to the most special moments. Accompanied by fluffy white rice, crispy farofa, and fresh salad, it transforms into a banquet of Brazilian flavors.
Essential Ingredients: The Soul of the Stirred Paraense Manteiguinha Bean Dish
The simplicity of the ingredients is one of the charms of the stirred manteiguinha bean with dried meat. Fresh and quality ingredients are the basis for an authentic and flavorful dish. Check the complete list:
- Raw manteiguinha bean: The star of the recipe, protagonist of flavor and texture.
- Butter: Adds flavor, creaminess, and a velvety touch to the sauté.
- Onion: Aromatic base of the sauté, contributes flavor and sweetness.
- Garlic: Essential for the flavor of the sauté, with its spicy and aromatic touch.
- Ripe tomatoes: Add acidity, moisture, and a slightly sweet touch to the sauté.
- Red bell pepper: Offers freshness, vibrant color, and a slightly sweet and spicy flavor.
- Cooked and shredded dried meat: Responsible for the intense salty flavor and fibrous texture of the dish.
- Chopped scallion: Fresh and aromatic finishing touch, enhances the flavors of the stirred dish.
- Fresh red chili pepper: Optional spicy touch, for those who enjoy a slight heat.
- Salt and extra virgin olive oil: Basic seasonings, enhance flavors and balance the palate.
Detailed Preparation: Step-by-Step of the Paraense Manteiguinha Bean Stirred Dish
The preparation of the stirred manteiguinha bean with dried meat, despite requiring a bit of time for cooking the bean, is relatively simple and straightforward. Follow this step-by-step to ensure a perfect result:
1. Cooking the Manteiguinha Bean: The Creamy Base
- Rinse the manteiguinha bean well in running water.
- In a large pot, place the beans and cover with water, exceeding about 10 cm above the grains.
- Bring to medium heat and cook for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the grains are soft but still whole. Cooking time may vary depending on the age of the bean.
- If using a pressure cooker, cooking time will be shorter, around 45 minutes. After 30 minutes, check the cooking point to avoid beans falling apart.
- Drain the cooked beans, reserving the cooking water for other preparations if desired.
2. Sautéing Aromatics: Building Layers of Flavor
- In a large, deep pot, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until transparent and lightly golden, releasing its characteristic aroma.
- Add chopped garlic and sauté for a few more seconds, just to perfume, being careful not to burn it.
- Add peeled and seeded chopped tomatoes and chopped red bell pepper. Season with salt to taste.
- Cook the sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the tomatoes break down slightly and the bell pepper softens, forming a thick and aromatic sauce.
3. Incorporating the Dried Meat and Bean: The Union of Flavors and Textures
- Add the cooked and shredded dried meat to the sauté in the pot. Mix well to incorporate the dried meat with the flavors of the sauté.
- Add the cooked and drained manteiguinha bean to the pot with the dried meat and sauté.
- Gently stir to incorporate the beans with the other ingredients, ensuring all flavors harmonize.
- Let the stir dish simmer for a few more minutes so the flavors fully integrate and the dish heats evenly.
4. Finishing and Serving: Freshness and Spicy Touch
- Adjust the salt in the stir dish if necessary, remembering that dried meat already has a considerable salt content.
- Add chopped scallion and chopped fresh red chili pepper (optional) to the stir dish. Gently mix.
- Transfer the stirred Paraense manteiguinha bean with dried meat to a serving dish and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving.
- Serve hot, accompanied by fluffy white rice, farofa, and salad, for a complete and irresistible meal.
Tips and Variations: Elevating the Stir Dish to New Gastronomic Experiences
Although the traditional recipe of the stirred Paraense manteiguinha bean with dried meat is impeccable in its simplicity and flavor, you can explore some variations and tips to personalize the dish and surprise your guests:
- Smoky touch: Add smoked bacon cubes to the sauté along with the onion for an extra flavor and smoky aroma that harmonizes with dried meat and beans.
- Biquinho pepper: For a sweet and mildly spicy touch, replace the red chili pepper with chopped biquinho pepper.
- Green herb mix: Besides scallion, add chopped cilantro at the finish to provide a fresh and citrusy aroma that complements the stir dish flavors, especially if you enjoy the touch of Paraense cuisine as noted in the original text.
- Enhanced sides: Serve the stirred manteiguinha bean dish with sides like sautéed collard greens, fried egg, or grilled plantain for an even more complete and flavorful meal.
- Variation with sausage: For a variation of the dish, replace part of the dried meat with smoked calabrese sausage slices, creating a stir with even more intense and varied flavors.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Brazilian Flavors in Every Bite
O stirred Paraense manteiguinha bean with dried meat is more than a simple recipe: it is a celebration of the richness of Brazilian cuisine, the diversity of our ingredients, and the authenticity of our regional flavors. Each bite of this dish transports us to the Amazon region, with its exuberance, aromas, and the magic of its unique ingredients.
Prepare this stirred manteiguinha bean dish at home, share with your family and friends, and allow yourself to embark on an unforgettable gastronomic journey, discovering the charms and delight of Paraense cuisine. An experience that will certainly awaken your senses and win your palate forever.
Image Source: caixacolonial