Fish and Shrimp Stew

Fish and Shrimp Stew Recipe - A Delicious Brazilian Delight

Region / culture: Brazil | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fish and Shrimp Stew is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the delicate flavors of seafood with a rich and aromatic sauce. This stew is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests.

History

Fish and Shrimp Stew has its origins in African and Caribbean cuisine, where seafood is abundant and often used in stews and soups. The combination of shrimp and fish in a rich tomato and coconut sauce is a classic flavor profile that has been enjoyed for generations.

Ingredients

2 onions (6 oz / 170 g each)
3 garlic cloves
1 tsp olive oil
5 tbsp minced fresh jalapeño chilies (to 7)
3 tbsp minced fresh ginger
4 cups fat-skimmed chicken broth
2 cans tomato sauce (15 oz / 425 g each)
1 can stewed tomatoes (14.5 oz / 411 g)
0.25 cup sweetened shredded dried coconut
3 tbsp chunky peanut butter
2 lb (907 g) frozen deveined peeled shrimp (4.02 ct)
1 lb (454 g) boned skinned firm white-flesh fish (such as halibut)
0.5 cup chopped fresh cilantro
salt to taste
freshly-ground black pepper to taste
cilantro sprigs rinsed

How to prepare

Peel the onions and garlic.
In a nonstick pan over high heat, stir the onions, garlic, oil, jalapeños, and ginger frequently until the onions are limp, about 10 minutes.
Stir in the broth, tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes (including the juices; break the tomatoes into chunks with a spoon), coconut, and peanut butter.
When the mixture is simmering, stir in the shrimp. Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 4 minutes. Meanwhile, rinse the fish and cut it into 1-inch chunks.
Stir the fish into the sauce, cover the pan, and cook until the fish and shrimp are opaque but still moist-looking in the center of the thickest part (cut to test), 3 to 4 minutes.
Stir in the chopped cilantro and add salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle the mixture into soup bowls.
Garnish with cilantro sprigs.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra color and flavor.
Use different types of seafood such as scallops or mussels.
Substitute the peanut butter with almond butter for a different nutty flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh seafood for the best flavor and texture.

- Adjust the amount of chilies to suit your taste preferences.

- Don't overcook the seafood, as it can become tough and rubbery.

- Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Fish and Shrimp Stew with steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. A side salad or steamed vegetables would also complement the dish well.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the aromatics until fragrant to build flavor.

- Simmer the stew gently to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Be careful not to overcook the seafood to maintain its delicate texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

- Substitute the halibut with another firm white-flesh fish such as cod or tilapia.

- Use coconut milk instead of shredded coconut for a creamier texture.

Make Ahead Tips

Fish and Shrimp Stew can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Fish and Shrimp Stew in individual bowls garnished with fresh cilantro sprigs for a beautiful presentation. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of coconut milk can add a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Fish and Shrimp Stew with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. A cold beer or a fruity cocktail would also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Fish and Shrimp Stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 18g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 8g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 35g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20%

- Vitamin C: 30%

- Calcium: 10%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains shellfish (shrimp) and peanuts (peanut butter)

Summary

Fish and Shrimp Stew is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and vitamins. It is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids from the seafood and provides a good balance of carbohydrates and fats.

Summary

Fish and Shrimp Stew is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. With its rich and aromatic sauce, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a rainy day, much like today, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a worn and splattered piece of paper fell out, revealing a handwritten recipe for Fish and Shrimp Stew.

I had never made a dish like this before, but something about it spoke to me. The combination of tender fish, plump shrimp, and a rich, flavorful broth seemed like the perfect comfort food for a dreary day. I knew I had to give it a try.

I read over the recipe carefully, taking note of each ingredient and step. It was clear that this was a dish that had been perfected over time, with each component carefully chosen to create a harmonious blend of flavors. I could almost imagine the person who had written it, a seasoned cook who knew the secrets of making a truly delicious stew.

With a sense of determination, I set out to gather the ingredients. I made my way to the local fish market, selecting the freshest catch of the day – a flaky white fish and plump, juicy shrimp. I carefully selected the vegetables and seasonings, ensuring that each would contribute to the overall taste of the stew.

Back in my kitchen, I set to work preparing the ingredients. I chopped onions and garlic, diced tomatoes, and sliced bell peppers, taking care to create uniform pieces that would cook evenly in the stew. I seasoned the fish and shrimp with a blend of herbs and spices, allowing them to marinate and absorb the flavors.

As I cooked, the kitchen filled with the warm, comforting aromas of simmering broth and sizzling seafood. The rich scent of garlic and onions mingled with the fresh herbs, creating a tantalizing perfume that made my mouth water in anticipation.

I carefully followed each step of the recipe, adding the ingredients in the precise order specified. I watched as the fish and shrimp cooked to perfection, their flesh turning opaque and tender in the bubbling broth. I stirred in the vegetables, allowing them to soften and release their flavors into the stew.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. I ladled a generous portion of the stew into a bowl, garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. I took a hesitant bite, savoring the medley of flavors that danced on my tongue.

The stew was everything I had hoped for and more. The fish was tender and flaky, the shrimp plump and succulent. The broth was rich and savory, with a hint of heat from the spices. Each bite was a symphony of tastes and textures, a testament to the skill and knowledge of the person who had first created this recipe.

As I sat down to enjoy my meal, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the recipe that had brought such joy and satisfaction into my life. It was a reminder that food is not just sustenance, but a form of artistry and expression, a way to connect with others and celebrate the simple pleasures of life.

And so, as I finished my bowl of Fish and Shrimp Stew, I made a promise to myself to continue learning and sharing the recipes that had brought me so much joy. For in each dish lies a story, a memory, a connection to the past and a hope for the future. And I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of that legacy, one delicious recipe at a time.