Brazilian recipe
Traditional Bahian Fish Stew (Moqueca baiana)
A classic, authentic recipe for Moqueca baiana featuring fresh fish, coconut milk, and the deep, vibrant flavor of dende oil. A quintessential Brazilian dish.
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Ingredients
1 kg white fish (such as sea bass, dogfish, or mahi-mahi), cut into steaks or chunks
Juice of 1 lime
3 garlic cloves, crushed
Salt to taste
2 large onions, cut into thick rounds
3 ripe tomatoes, cut into thick rounds
1 green bell pepper, cut into thick rounds
1 bunch fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
200 ml coconut milk
½ cup azeite de dendê
Juice of 1 lime
3 garlic cloves, crushed
Salt to taste
2 large onions, cut into thick rounds
3 ripe tomatoes, cut into thick rounds
1 green bell pepper, cut into thick rounds
1 bunch fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
200 ml coconut milk
½ cup azeite de dendê
Where to find ingredients
You can source fresh white fish at local fish markets or supermarket seafood counters. For authentic ingredients like azeite de dendê (red palm oil) and high-quality coconut milk, visit international food markets or specialty grocery sections. Fresh cilantro and produce are readily available at any local market.
Preparation method
- Season the fish steaks or chunks with the lime juice, crushed garlic, and salt.
- Allow the fish to marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- In a clay pot or a deep skillet, arrange half of the onion, tomato, and bell pepper slices to create a base.
- Place the seasoned fish pieces on top of the vegetables.
- Cover the fish with the remaining slices of onion, tomato, and bell pepper.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped cilantro over the vegetables and fish.
- Drizzle evenly with the azeite de dendê, 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, but be careful not to let it break apart.
- If necessary, continue cooking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
- Finish by sprinkling the remaining cilantro over the stew before serving hot.
Observations
Moqueca baiana stands as one of the most celebrated dishes in Brazilian gastronomy, with roots deeply embedded in the Afro-Brazilian culture of Bahia. This rich, aromatic stew artfully combines the delicate texture of fresh fish with the mellow sweetness of coconut milk and the unmistakable, earthy kick of azeite de dendê. It is a comforting yet celebratory meal, perfect for sharing with friends and family, and is traditionally enjoyed alongside steamed white rice, crunchy farofa, and a flavorful pirão to balance its complex profile.
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