Brazilian recipe
Traditional Moqueca Baiana Fish Stew (Moqueca baiana)
An authentic, classic recipe for Moqueca baiana featuring fresh fish, rich coconut milk, and the distinctive aroma of azeite de dendê.
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Ingredients
1 kg white fish (sea bass, shark, or mahi-mahi), cut into steaks or chunks
Juice of 1 lime
3 cloves garlic, crushed
Salt to taste
2 large onions, sliced into thick rounds
3 ripe tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
1 green bell pepper, sliced into thick rounds
1 bunch fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
200 ml coconut milk
½ cup azeite de dendê
Juice of 1 lime
3 cloves garlic, crushed
Salt to taste
2 large onions, sliced into thick rounds
3 ripe tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
1 green bell pepper, sliced into thick rounds
1 bunch fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped
200 ml coconut milk
½ cup azeite de dendê
Where to find ingredients
You can find fresh white fish at your local fish market or the fresh seafood counter at supermarkets like Hi-Lo or Progressive Foods. Look for azeite de dendê (red palm oil) in the international or ethnic food aisle of specialty grocers, as it is essential for the authentic color and flavor profile. If unavailable, ensure you are buying high-quality, sustainably sourced palm oil.
Preparation method
- Season the fish pieces with the lime juice, crushed garlic, and salt.
- Allow the fish to marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- In a traditional clay pot or deep heavy-bottomed skillet, layer half of the onion, tomato, and bell pepper slices to create a base.
- Arrange the seasoned fish pieces over the layer of vegetables.
- Cover the fish with the remaining onion, tomato, and bell pepper slices.
- 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, taking care that it does not fall apart.
- If necessary, continue to simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
- Finish by sprinkling the remaining cilantro over the stew before serving hot.
Observations
Moqueca baiana is one of the most iconic dishes in Brazilian cuisine, deeply rooted in the Afro-Brazilian heritage of Bahia. This flavorful, aromatic stew beautifully marries the delicate nature of fresh fish with the velvety sweetness of coconut milk and the earthy, vibrant intensity of azeite de dendê. It makes for a comforting and celebratory meal, perfectly suited for sharing with family and friends. Traditionally, it is served alongside white rice, farofa, and pirão, which round out the texture and bold flavors of this signature dish.
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