Moqueca Brazilian Fish Stew (Print Version)

Brazilian fish stew with coconut, tomatoes, and peppers; savory, aromatic, and full of vibrant flavor.

# Ingredients:

→ Seafood

01 - 2 pounds firm white fish fillets, such as cod or halibut, cut into 2-inch pieces
02 - 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Vegetables

03 - 2 large tomatoes, diced
04 - 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
05 - 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
06 - 1 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
07 - 4 garlic cloves, finely minced

→ Coconut Base and Aromatics

08 - 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
09 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
10 - 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
11 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
12 - 2 tablespoons palm oil or an extra 2 tablespoons olive oil
13 - 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
14 - 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
15 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste

# Steps:

01 - In a mixing bowl, combine lime juice, half the cilantro, garlic, black pepper, and salt. Add fish and shrimp, tossing gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
02 - Heat olive oil and palm oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in red and yellow bell peppers and continue cooking until softened.
03 - Arrange marinated fish and shrimp on top of sautéed vegetables. Scatter diced tomatoes over the seafood.
04 - Pour coconut milk evenly over the ingredients. Sprinkle paprika on top. Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 20 minutes, or until fish flakes easily and shrimp turn pink.
05 - Garnish stew with remaining chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Use firm, fresh fish to prevent disintegration during cooking. For added depth, serve with steamed rice or farofa.