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Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca Baiana)

A vibrant Brazilian fish stew featuring tender fish in a fragrant coconut milk broth, enhanced with fresh herbs and spices.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main
Cuisine Brazilian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Fish

  • 2 pounds Firm white fish fillets (snapper, grouper, or tilapia)

Aromatics

  • 1 large Onion Finely chopped
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced

Vegetables

  • 2 large Tomatoes Diced
  • 1 red Bell pepper Sliced into thin strips
  • 1 yellow Bell pepper Sliced into thin strips

Coconut Milk

  • 1 can Coconut milk (14 ounces)

Seasonings

  • 1/4 cup Fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro Chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin

To Taste

  • Salt To taste
  • Pepper To taste

Optional

  • 1 Jalapeño pepper Sliced, optional for heat

Instructions
 

  • 1. Prepare the Fish: Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry. Cut into large chunks and season with salt, pepper, and half of the lime juice. Marinate for 15-20 minutes.
  • 2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • 3. Add the Peppers and Tomatoes: Toss in sliced bell peppers and diced tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly softened.
  • 4. Incorporate the Spices: Sprinkle paprika and cumin over the vegetables, stirring to combine and cook for a couple of minutes.
  • 5. Pour in the Coconut Milk: Add the coconut milk to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • 6. Add the Fish: Gently place the marinated fish into the pot, ensuring they are submerged. If using jalapeño, add it now. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
  • 7. Finish with Lime and Cilantro: Stir in the remaining lime juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • 8. Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with extra cilantro if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

For variations, consider using different fish, adding more vegetables, or adjusting the spice level to your preference.
Keyword Easy