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Moqueca de Peixe: Brazil's Flavorful Fish Stew

Description:

Experience the vibrant flavors of Brazil with Moqueca de Peixe, a traditional fish stew that's rich and aromatic. This dish combines fresh fish with a savory blend of coconut milk, tomatoes, peppers, and spices. Want to immerse yourself in Brazilian cuisine? Learn how to make this iconic stew at home.

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Historical Background:

Moqueca de Peixe has its roots in the Afro-Brazilian culinary tradition, particularly from the coastal regions of Bahia and Espírito Santo. This stew reflects the influence of African, Portuguese, and Indigenous cuisines, known for its rich flavors and use of local ingredients.

 

Key Ingredients:

  • Fresh fish fillets (such as cod, snapper, or tilapia)

  • Coconut milk

  • Tomatoes

  • Bell peppers (red and green)

  • Onions

  • Garlic

  • Palm oil (dendê)

  • Cilantro

  • Lime juice

  • Salt and pepper

  • Optional: Hot peppers for extra heat

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Flavor Profile:

Moqueca de Peixe offers a harmonious blend of creamy and tangy flavors. The coconut milk provides a rich, velvety texture, while the palm oil adds a distinctive earthy flavor. The tomatoes and bell peppers infuse the dish with freshness and brightness, complemented by the zesty lime juice and fragrant cilantro.

 

Culinary Insights:

Moqueca de Peixe is more than just a stew; it’s a celebration of Brazilian culinary traditions. It’s often enjoyed with a side of rice and farofa (toasted cassava flour), making it a hearty and satisfying meal. This dish exemplifies the creativity and flavor diversity of Brazilian cuisine.

 

Ingredients for 2 Persones:

For the Stew:

  • 1 lb (450g) fresh fish fillets ( Cod or Snapper)

  • 400 ml coconut milk

  • 2 tomatoes, chopped

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 large onion, sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp palm oil (dendê)

  • 0.5cup chopped cilantro

  • 1 tbsp lime juice

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional: 1 hot pepper, sliced (for extra heat)

 

For Serving:

  • Cooked rice

  • Farofa (toasted cassava flour)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:

    • Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper. Set aside.

    • Heat the palm oil in a large pot over medium heat.

  2. Sauté the Vegetables:

    • Add the onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until translucent.

    • Stir in the chopped tomatoes and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are softened.

  3. Add the Fish:

    • Place the fish fillets in the pot, and pour in the coconut milk.

    • Simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

  4. Season and Garnish:

    • Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice.

    • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If using hot peppers, add them to the pot for extra heat.

  5. Serve:

    • Serve the Moqueca de Peixe hot with a side of rice and farofa.

Enjoy the authentic taste of Brazil with this rich and comforting fish stew!

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