Brazil

Independence Day
Independence Day is always celebrated on 7 September. In Portuguese it is called ‘Dia da Independência’ and may also be known as ‘Sete de Setembro’ (7 September) or ‘Dia da Pátria’ (Nation Day). On 7 September 1822, a declaration of independence from Portugal was made by Pedro di Alcântara, the son of the Portuguese King. Brazil had been a colony of Portugal since the 16th century. In 1807 France had invaded Portugal and the Portuguese royal family had escaped to Brazil. in 1815, Brazil was given equal kingdom status with Portugal. By 1820, the French had withdrawn from Portugal and the royal family Alcântara, better known as Pedro I, became the first emperor of Brazil and ruled from 1823 until 1831. Brazil became a republic in 1889 but kept 7 September as its Independence Day. Independence Day has been a federal holiday in Brazil since 1949. On this day there are celebrations in the capital, Brasilia, with military parades, air shows, musical concerts and fireworks in the evening.
Feijoada Brazil

Faeijoada

Serves 8
Ingredients:
  • 1 pound of black beans drained (soaked overnight)
  • 1/2 cup oil
  • 2 medium onions chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup white wine
  • 2 chorizo sausage sliced
  • 1 medium chuck steak
  • 1 pound smoked bacon cubed
  • 1 ham hock( whole)
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 1 can tomato paste
  • Salt and pepper
Method:
In a large pot add oil and brown all meat except ham hock, when done remove from the pot and keep warm for later. In the same pot add more oil if you need to and saute onions and garlic for 5 minutes until onions a soft. Pour wine in pot and loosen brown bits from the bottom, add beans, meat, bay leaves, water to cover, salt and pepper Bring to a boil then add tomato paste and give a good stir then add ham hock. Simmer until ham falls of the bone serve with rice and greens.
Try with:

Icy Caipirinha or Pinot Noir Hob Nob from France                  Tim tim!!