Description
Moqueca Brazilian Fish Stew is a traditional dish packed with flavor and warmth. It combines coconut milk, lime, tomatoes, and fresh fish for a tropical, comforting meal that’s perfect for both casual dinners and special gatherings. This one-pot recipe delivers complexity without stress.
Ingredients
1 pound firm white fish (cod or halibut), cut into chunks
1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced (red or yellow)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup fish stock or water
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the fish and shrimp in lime juice, salt, and pepper for 15 minutes.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
3. Stir in paprika and cayenne, then add chopped tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes break down.
4. Pour in coconut milk and fish stock. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add marinated fish and shrimp. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until seafood is fully cooked.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or crusty bread.
Notes
Choose firm fish that won’t fall apart in the stew. Cod, halibut, or sea bass are ideal.
Do not overcook the shrimp—they only need a few minutes once added.
For extra depth, sauté a few slices of fresh ginger along with garlic.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Stew
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 145mg