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Cachupa is a beloved dish that serves as the national dish of Cape Verde, showcasing the vibrant culinary culture of the islands. This hearty stew is a medley of flavors, combining beans, corn, vegetables, and meat or fish, simmered together to perfection. Cachupa holds a special place in the hearts of Cape Verdeans, often enjoyed as a comforting meal shared with family and friends during gatherings and celebrations. Let's explore how to prepare this iconic dish and savor the taste of Cape Verdean tradition.

Ingredients:

1 lb dried hominy corn

1 lb pork ribs or beef chunks

1 lb sausage (chorizo or linguica), sliced

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tomatoes, diced

2 carrots, diced

2 potatoes, diced

1 sweet potato, diced

1/2 cabbage, chopped

1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can corn kernels, drained

4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

2 bay leaves

Salt and pepper to taste

Hot sauce (optional) for serving

Instructions:

In a large pot, soak the dried hominy corn in water overnight to soften. Drain the soaked corn and add it to the pot along with the pork ribs or beef chunks. Add the sliced sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, sweet potato, and chopped cabbage to the pot. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the drained kidney beans, corn kernels, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the corn is tender and the flavors have melded together. Season the cachupa with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving:

Serve the hot cachupa in bowls, accompanied by slices of crusty bread and a bottle of hot sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick of heat. Enjoy this hearty Cape Verdean stew as a satisfying meal that captures the essence of island living.

Cachupa is more than just a dish it's a symbol of Cape Verdean identity and culture, embodying the warmth, diversity, and richness of the islands. Whether prepared for a festive occasion or enjoyed as a comforting meal at home, cachupa brings people together and celebrates the flavors of Cape Verde.