Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

An impressive and easy Brazilian fish stew, Moqueca is a vibrant dish that showcases the flavors of the sea, enhanced by creamy coconut milk, bright peppers, and zesty lime. Perfect for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings, this stew brings a touch of Brazil to your table with its rich, aromatic profile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you can whip up this delightful stew in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of coconut milk, spices, and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously unique flavor that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute with any firm white fish available to you; this recipe adapts beautifully.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, Moqueca is a wholesome meal choice.
• Great for Meal Prep: This stew keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for leftovers or lunch the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Moqueca, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents spills when adding the ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, it helps combine flavors effectively.

Ingredients

For the Stew

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 yellow onion (diced)
• 1 jalapeno (diced, seeds removed if too spicy)
• 1 red bell pepper (seeds removed and sliced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (seeds removed and sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (add more if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 pounds cod (or other firm white fish, cut into large 1-2 inch pieces)
• 2 vine tomatoes (chopped, with their juices or 1 13 ounce can chopped tomatoes)
• 2 cups seafood stock (or vegetable stock)
• 13 ounce can coconut milk (full fat)
• 1 lime (zested + lime cut into wedges)
• 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)

For the Rice

• 1 cup jasmine rice (washed and rinsed)
• 2 cups vegetable stock
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)

How to Make Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add the coconut oil and olive oil. Once melted:
1. Add the diced onion and jalapeño; sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers; cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Spices and Tomatoes

Next:
1. Incorporate the chopped garlic, sweet paprika, and cayenne; sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes with their juices; stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Prepare the Fish

Prepare your fish:
1. Use paper towels to pat dry the cod pieces; season them with salt and pepper.
2. Gently lay the seasoned fish on top of the sautéed vegetables.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in:
1. The coconut milk and seafood stock.
2. Add lime zest; season further with salt and pepper.
3. Carefully stir to mix without disrupting the fish.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the pot with a lid slightly ajar:
1. Bring it to a simmer.
2. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flavors meld together.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked:
1. Remove from heat; taste for seasoning adjustments.
2. Serve hot over cooked jasmine rice garnished with chopped green onions and lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious Moqueca – a true taste of Brazilian cuisine!

How to Serve Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

Serving moqueca is an exciting opportunity to highlight its vibrant flavors and textures. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Jasmine Rice

• Serve the moqueca over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the rich coconut broth.

Fresh Lime Wedges

• Offer lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their stew, adding a fresh and zesty touch.

Chopped Green Onions

• Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for an extra crunch and a pop of color.

Avocado Slices

• Add slices of creamy avocado to complement the dish’s flavors and provide a buttery texture.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping, allowing everyone to enjoy every last drop of the delicious broth.

Cilantro Garnish

• Fresh cilantro can be added as a garnish for an aromatic finish that enhances the stew’s overall taste.

How to Perfect Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

Perfecting moqueca involves attention to flavor balance and cooking techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is exceptional.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh fish and vegetables will enhance the flavors significantly compared to frozen or canned options.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tailor the level of cayenne or jalapeño based on your taste preferences; spice can always be adjusted!

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the stew to simmer gently helps meld the flavors together beautifully. Just ensure not to overcook the fish.

• Experiment with Fish Varieties: You can use other types of firm white fish like halibut or snapper if cod is not available.

• Incorporate Herbs: Adding fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro at the end can brighten up the dish immensely.

Best Side Dishes for Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

Pairing side dishes with moqueca enhances your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this flavorful Brazilian stew.

1. Coconut Rice: A delightful twist on plain rice, coconut rice adds sweetness and creaminess that pairs perfectly with moqueca’s flavors.

2. Fried Plantains: Crispy fried plantains offer a sweet contrast that balances out the savory notes of the stew.

3. Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce left in your bowl after enjoying your moqueca.

4. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus dressing refreshes the palate between bites of stew.

5. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and fiber while enhancing the overall texture of your meal.

6. Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your dinner plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew), it’s easy to overlook key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a delicious outcome.

• Missing seasoning balance: Not properly seasoning your dish can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as you cook.
• Overcooking the fish: Fish can become tough if overcooked. Keep an eye on cooking times, and remove it from heat as soon as it’s just cooked through.
• Skipping ingredient prep: If you don’t prepare your ingredients beforehand, it can disrupt your cooking process. Chop vegetables and measure out spices in advance.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can affect flavor. Always opt for fresh fish and produce for the best results.
• Ignoring the coconut milk quality: Using low-quality coconut milk can ruin the creamy texture of your stew. Choose full-fat coconut milk for richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store moqueca in an airtight container.
• It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• The moqueca can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew).

What fish is best for Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)?

Cod is an excellent choice due to its firm texture. Other firm white fish like halibut or snapper also work well.

Can I use vegetable stock instead of seafood stock?

Yes, vegetable stock is a great substitute if you prefer a vegetarian version of moqueca without compromising flavor.

How spicy is Moqueca?

The level of spice depends on how much jalapeño you include. You can adjust the spice by adding more or less according to your preference.

Can I add other vegetables to my Moqueca?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or green beans for added nutrition and flavor variety.

Final Thoughts

Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew) is not only delicious but also adaptable. You can customize it with different types of fish and vegetables based on what you enjoy or have on hand. Give this bright and flavorful dish a try; it’s sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Brazil with this delightful Moqueca, a Brazilian fish stew that’s both impressive and easy to prepare. This aromatic dish features tender pieces of fish simmered in creamy coconut milk, complemented by fresh vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes, and brightened with zesty lime. Perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, Moqueca offers a unique taste experience that transports you straight to the tropics. With its rich, flavorful broth and healthy ingredients, it’s a meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 yellow onion (diced)
• 1 jalapeno (diced, seeds removed if too spicy)
• 1 red bell pepper (seeds removed and sliced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (seeds removed and sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (add more if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 pounds cod (or other firm white fish, cut into large 1–2 inch pieces)
• 2 vine tomatoes (chopped, with their juices or 1 13 ounce can chopped tomatoes)
• 2 cups seafood stock (or vegetable stock)
• 13 ounce can coconut milk (full fat)
• 1 lime (zested + lime cut into wedges)
• 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)
• 1 cup jasmine rice (washed and rinsed)
• 2 cups vegetable stock
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)

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Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, melt coconut oil and olive oil. Add diced onion and jalapeño; sauté until softened.
2. Stir in sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
3. Add chopped garlic, sweet paprika, and cayenne; sauté briefly until fragrant. Incorporate chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.
4. Pat dry the cod pieces, season with salt and pepper, then place them on top of the sautéed vegetables.
5. Pour in coconut milk and seafood stock; add lime zest. Gently stir to combine without disturbing the fish.
6. Cover partially and let simmer for 10–15 minutes until fish is cooked through.
7. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving over jasmine rice and garnishing with green onions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
• Calories: 440
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg