Brazilian recipe
Authentic Fish Moqueca (Moqueca baiana)
A quintessential and authentic Brazilian stew featuring fresh fish, creamy coconut milk, and the distinctive flavour of red palm oil.
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Ingredients
1 kg white fish (such as barramundi or snapper), sliced into thick pieces or cubes
Juice of 1 lemon
3 garlic cloves, crushed
Sea salt to taste
2 large brown onions, sliced into thick rounds
3 ripe tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
1 green capsicum, sliced into thick rounds
1 bunch fresh coriander, roughly chopped
200 ml coconut milk
125 ml azeite de dendê
Juice of 1 lemon
3 garlic cloves, crushed
Sea salt to taste
2 large brown onions, sliced into thick rounds
3 ripe tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
1 green capsicum, sliced into thick rounds
1 bunch fresh coriander, roughly chopped
200 ml coconut milk
125 ml azeite de dendê
Where to find ingredients
You can find fresh white fish like barramundi or snapper at your local fishmonger or the seafood counter of major supermarkets. Azeite de dendê (red palm oil) and coconut milk are available in the international or Latin American aisle of specialty grocers or large supermarkets.
Preparation method
- Season the fish pieces with lemon juice, crushed garlic, and sea salt.
- Allow the fish to marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- In a traditional clay pot or a deep, heavy-based pan, arrange half of the onion, tomato, and capsicum slices to create a base.
- Place the seasoned fish pieces on top of the vegetables.
- Cover the fish with the remaining onion, tomato, and capsicum slices.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped coriander over the vegetables and fish.
- Drizzle the azeite de dendê evenly over the ingredients, followed by the coconut milk.
- Cover the pot and place it over medium heat.
- Simmer for approximately 20 minutes.
- Check that the fish is cooked through and tender, taking care not to let it break apart.
- If necessary, continue to simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
- Finish by scattering the remaining coriander over the moqueca and serve immediately while hot.
Observations
Moqueca baiana stands as one of the most celebrated dishes in Brazilian gastronomy, with deep roots in the Afro-Brazilian culture of Bahia. This rich, aromatic stew pairs the delicate texture of fresh fish with the sweetness of coconut milk and the unmistakable, earthy depth of azeite de dendê. It is a hearty and festive meal perfect for gatherings, traditionally served with accompaniments such as steamed white rice, farofa, and pirão, which beautifully complement its complex flavours and sauce.
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