Brazilian recipe
Creamy Vatapá Recipe (Receita de vatapá cremoso)
A staple of Brazilian cuisine, this vatapá combines shredded chicken and prawns in a rich bread-and-coconut-milk cream, making it ideal for special occasions.
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Ingredients
2 kg boiled and shredded chicken
1 kg small prawns
8 stale French rolls (pão francês)
2 bottles coconut milk
1 onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
200 ml azeite de dendê
2 liters vegetable stock
Fresh coriander, chopped, to taste
Pimenta de cheiro (or mild chili pepper), chopped, to taste
Salt, to taste
1 kg small prawns
8 stale French rolls (pão francês)
2 bottles coconut milk
1 onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
200 ml azeite de dendê
2 liters vegetable stock
Fresh coriander, chopped, to taste
Pimenta de cheiro (or mild chili pepper), chopped, to taste
Salt, to taste
Where to find ingredients
You can find most ingredients at local markets or supermarkets in Port Moresby. For the azeite de dendê and specific Brazilian items, look for specialty international grocery stores or organic produce suppliers. If you cannot find pimenta de cheiro, you may substitute it with a mild bell pepper or a small amount of habanero if you prefer extra heat, though the authentic profile relies on the unique aroma of the original pepper.
Preparation method
- Slice the French rolls and place them into a large bowl.
- Pour the coconut milk over the bread and let it soften completely.
- Transfer the bread and coconut milk mixture to a blender and process until it becomes a smooth cream.
- Heat the azeite de dendê in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it brown.
- Add the small prawns to the pot and cook for just a few minutes until they change color.
- Add the shredded chicken to the pot and mix well with the sautéed base.
- Pour the blended bread and coconut milk cream into the pot.
- Gradually add the hot vegetable stock, stirring continuously with a whisk or spoon to ensure the bread doesn't stick to the bottom and to achieve a smooth texture.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the vatapá thickens and reaches your desired consistency.
- Season with salt to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Finally, stir in the chopped fresh coriander and pimenta de cheiro.
- Serve the vatapá warm, accompanied by steamed white rice.
Observations
Vatapá is a traditional dish in Brazil, especially famous in Bahia, known for its velvety texture and robust flavor profile. It is commonly prepared for celebrations and family Sunday lunches, standing out as a comforting, flavorful meal that appeals to many. Its creamy base, enriched by a blend of chicken, prawns, and azeite de dendê, gives it a unique character.
This recipe guides you through the process of making authentic Vatapá at home. By using fresh ingredients and careful preparation, you will achieve a delicious result with the ideal consistency, worthy of a true chef.
This recipe guides you through the process of making authentic Vatapá at home. By using fresh ingredients and careful preparation, you will achieve a delicious result with the ideal consistency, worthy of a true chef.
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