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Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca Baiana)

A vibrant Brazilian Fish Stew featuring coconut milk, fresh vegetables, and tender seafood.
Print Recipe Save it
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine Brazilian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Seafood

  • 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined 31-40 count per lb
  • 1 pound white fish fillets (like halibut) cut into 2-inch pieces

Vegetables

  • 1 large lime for juice and zest
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil not extra virgin
  • 1 large yellow onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 fresh jalapeno seeds removed, finely diced
  • 1 bell pepper red or yellow diced
  • 14 ounces fish stock or seafood stock
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons paprika powder
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 14 ounces canned coconut milk
  • 2-3 tablespoons Dende (red palm oil) or coconut oil
  • 0.5 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Marinate the Seafood - In a bowl, combine the seafood with the juice and zest of the lime, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Base - In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Step 3: Add the Veggies - Add the diced carrots, jalapeno, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
  • Step 4: Build the Stew - Stir in the fish stock, tomato paste, and paprika powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.
  • Step 5: Incorporate the Seafood - Gently add the marinated shrimp and fish pieces into the pot. Sprinkle in the halved cherry tomatoes. Pour in the coconut milk and stir everything together. Let it simmer on low heat for another 8-10 minutes until the seafood is cooked through.
  • Step 6: Finish with Flavor - Once the seafood is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the Dende or coconut oil and sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the top.

Notes

Choose fresh seafood for the best flavor. Adjust the heat by adding or omitting the jalapeno. Experiment with different types of fish!
Keyword Easy