Description
Moqueca is a traditional Brazilian fish stew made with tender white fish gently simmered in coconut milk, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and aromatic herbs for a rich yet fresh coastal dish.
Ingredients
- 600 g white fish fillets (cod, snapper, or tilapia), cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp palm oil or olive oil
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 0.5 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Season fish with lime juice, salt, and black pepper; set aside for 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, bell peppers, and garlic; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomatoes, paprika, and cumin; cook for another 5 minutes.
- Gently place fish pieces into the pot.
- Pour coconut milk over the fish and drizzle with palm oil.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes until fish is cooked through.
- Sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot with white rice or farofa.
Notes
- Do not stir too much to avoid breaking the fish.
- Palm oil adds authentic flavor but can be replaced with olive oil.
- Fresh fish works best for this recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Brazilian