Moqueca de Peixe

Moqueca de Peixe Recipe - A Delicious Brazilian Seafood Dish

Region / culture: Brazil | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Moqueca de Peixe is a traditional Brazilian fish stew that is bursting with flavor and vibrant colors. This dish is a perfect combination of fresh fish, vegetables, and aromatic spices that come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Moqueca de Peixe has its origins in the state of Bahia, located in northeastern Brazil. This dish is a reflection of the region's rich culinary heritage, which combines African, Portuguese, and indigenous influences. The use of coconut milk, dende oil, and fresh seafood are key components of this traditional recipe.

Ingredients

2 tsp olive oil
4 white fish filets - (about 1 lb (454 g))
2 tomatoes, chopped
2 green bell peppers, diced
2 red bell peppers, diced
2 white onions, chopped
1 cup chopped cilantro
juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp salt
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dende oil
2 tbsp coconut milk
1 green onion, minced

How to prepare

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the fish and cook for about 2.5 minutes on each side.
Remove the fish from the pan.
Add tomatoes, green and red bell peppers, white onions, cilantro, lemon juice, salt, garlic, dende oil, and coconut milk to the pan.
Sprinkle green onion over the mixture and let it cook on low heat, covered, for 10 minutes.
Return the fish to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes before serving.

Variations

Substitute the white fish with shrimp or a mix of seafood for a different flavor profile.
Add diced potatoes or plantains for a heartier stew.
Use different types of bell peppers for a colorful twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh fish for the best flavor and texture.

- Adjust the amount of salt and spices to suit your taste preferences.

- Allow the stew to simmer on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Serve the Moqueca de Peixe with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Moqueca de Peixe with steamed rice, farofa (toasted cassava flour), and a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the fish before adding it to the stew helps to lock in the flavors and prevent it from becoming overcooked.

- Slow cooking the stew on low heat allows the ingredients to meld together and develop a rich flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find dende oil, you can substitute with palm oil or vegetable oil.

- Use any firm white fish such as cod, halibut, or snapper for this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the stew ahead of time and reheat it before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Moqueca de Peixe in a large bowl garnished with fresh cilantro and a wedge of lemon for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer to complement the flavors of the stew.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers 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

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 12g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 60% of daily value per serving

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains fish and coconut milk. May contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Moqueca de Peixe is a nutritious dish that is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a well-balanced meal that is both delicious and satisfying.

Summary

Moqueca de Peixe is a flavorful and nutritious Brazilian fish stew that is perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With its vibrant colors and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was given to me by a dear friend who had traveled to Brazil and fell in love with the vibrant and flavorful cuisine. The dish was called Moqueca de Peixe, a traditional Brazilian fish stew that was made with a rich and spicy coconut milk broth.

I was eager to try my hand at making this exotic dish, so I set to work gathering the ingredients. The recipe called for fresh fish, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, lime, cilantro, and of course, coconut milk. It was a symphony of flavors that promised to transport me to the sun-drenched beaches of Brazil with every spoonful.

As I began to prepare the dish, I could almost hear the sounds of sizzling fish and bubbling coconut milk in a bustling Brazilian kitchen. I seasoned the fish with salt, pepper, and lime juice before searing it in a hot pan until it was golden brown and fragrant. The smell was intoxicating, filling my kitchen with the heady aroma of spices and herbs.

Next, I sautéed the onions, bell peppers, and garlic until they were soft and caramelized, adding a depth of flavor to the dish. I then added the tomatoes and coconut milk, allowing the stew to simmer and thicken until it was rich and creamy. Finally, I gently folded in the seared fish and let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

As I ladled the steaming stew into bowls, I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor. The first spoonful was a revelation, bursting with the tang of lime, the sweetness of coconut milk, and the savory richness of the fish. It was a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate, transporting me to a far-off land where the sun always shone, and the sea was always warm.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire, a dish that I would make again and again for my family and friends. It was a taste of Brazil that had captured my heart and soul, and I was grateful to my friend for introducing me to this culinary gem.

As I sat down to enjoy my first bowl of Moqueca de Peixe, I couldn't help but think of all the other recipes that I had collected over the years from friends, family, and even strangers. Each one had a story to tell, a journey that had brought it to my kitchen and into my heart.

I thought of the fragrant curries that I had learned to make from an Indian neighbor, the hearty stews that had been passed down through generations in my own family, and the delicate pastries that I had tasted on my travels around the world. Each recipe was a thread in the rich tapestry of my culinary experiences, weaving together flavors and memories from far and wide.

As I savored each spoonful of the stew, I felt a sense of gratitude for the gift of cooking and the joy of sharing good food with those I loved. It was a simple pleasure that brought me immense happiness, and I knew that I would continue to seek out new recipes and flavors to add to my ever-growing collection.

And so, as I finished my meal and wiped my satisfied lips with a napkin, I made a mental note to thank my friend for introducing me to the wonders of Brazilian cuisine. Moqueca de Peixe would forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to each other and to the world around us. And as I drifted off to sleep that night, my belly full and my heart content, I knew that there were many more culinary adventures waiting for me just around the corner.