Name: Brazilian Fish Stew: 7 Amazing Tips for a Flavorful Dish
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 lb Halibut (Can substitute with cod or snapper.); ½ lb Fresh Shrimp (Ensure peeled and deveined.); Garlic (Fresh cloves boost aroma.); 1 medium White Onion (Must be sautéed.); 2 medium Bell Peppers (Use any color.); 2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice (Brightens flavors.); 1 tbsp Kosher Salt (Amplifies flavor.); 1 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly cracked enhances taste.); 1 tbsp Smoked Sweet Paprika (Subtle smokiness.); 1 cup Epis (Garlicky blend for authenticity.); 14 oz Coconut Milk (Use full-fat for texture.); 14 oz Fire Roasted Tomatoes (Contributes umami.); 2 tbsp Palm Oil (Distinguishes flavor.); ½ cup Cilantro (Add brightness.)

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Brazilian Fish Stew is a culinary gem that brings together the vibrant flavors of Brazil in a single dish. This traditional dish, also known as Moqueca Baiana, features a delightful mix of fish, shrimp, and aromatic spices that create a savory experience. From the first whiff of sautéing garlic to the last rich bite, this stew is a must-try for anyone looking to explore authentic Brazilian cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Brazilian Fish Stew

This Brazilian Fish Stew is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Rich in flavor, thanks to fresh ingredients like coconut milk and spices.
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Healthy option, packed with protein and wholesome ingredients.
Versatile—can be made with different types of fish, including halibut or snapper.
Ideal for seafood lovers with its delightful blend of fish and shrimp.
A true taste of Brazilian culture, showcasing the essence of Moqueca.
Gluten-free, so it fits into many dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Brazilian Fish Stew

Gather these items:

1 lb Halibut (Can substitute with cod or snapper.)
½ lb Fresh Shrimp (Ensure peeled and deveined.)
Garlic (Fresh cloves boost aroma.)
1 medium White Onion (Must be sautéed.)
2 medium Bell Peppers (Use any color.)
2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice (Brightens flavors.)
1 tbsp Kosher Salt (Amplifies flavor.)
1 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly cracked enhances taste.)
1 tbsp Smoked Sweet Paprika (Subtle smokiness.)
1 cup Epis (Garlicky blend for authenticity.)
14 oz Coconut Milk (Use full-fat for texture.)
14 oz Fire Roasted Tomatoes (Contributes umami.)
2 tbsp Palm Oil (Distinguishes flavor.)
½ cup Cilantro (Add brightness.)

How to Make Brazilian Fish Stew Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cut the halibut into 1-inch chunks and season with lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Marinate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Slice the onion and bell peppers. Mix remaining spices for easy access.
Step 3: Heat palm oil in a skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add onions and cook for 1 minute. Add bell peppers and cook until softened.
Step 4: Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes, coconut milk, epis, and half of the spice mixture. Let it reduce for 8-10 minutes.
Step 5: Remove 1 cup of sauce, add shrimp, and cook for 2 minutes on each side. Add halibut, top with reserved sauce, and simmer until fish is cooked through.
Step 6: Garnish with extra cilantro before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Brazilian Fish Stew

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh seafood for the best flavor.
Adjust the spices to your taste; if you like it spicy, add chili flakes.
Experiment with different vegetables, like zucchini or carrots, for added nutrition.
Cook the stew in a clay pot for an authentic Brazilian touch; it enhances flavor.
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, making it a complete meal.

Brazilian Fish Stew: 7 Amazing Tips for a Flavorful Dish - Brazilian Fish Stew - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Brazilian Fish Stew

Here are some serving ideas:

Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice for a filling meal.
Accompany with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Garnish with fresh lime wedges for an extra zing.

How to Store and Reheat Brazilian Fish Stew

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop until heated through. This is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Brazilian Fish Stew

What’s the secret to perfect Brazilian Fish Stew?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld. The combination of coconut milk and spices creates a rich, aromatic base that makes this stew irresistible.

Can I make Brazilian Fish Stew ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving to ensure the seafood remains tender.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Brazilian Fish Stew?

One common mistake is overcooking the seafood. Cook the shrimp and fish until just done to keep them tender. Also, don’t rush the simmering process; let the flavors develop fully.

Variations of Brazilian Fish Stew You Can Try

Explore these delicious variations:

Add more vegetables like kale or spinach for a healthy Brazilian fish stew.
Try using different types of seafood, such as mussels or squid, for a mixed seafood experience.
Make a spicy version by adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
For a vegetarian option, substitute fish with tofu and increase the amount of vegetables.

Brazilian Fish Stew: 7 Amazing Tips for a Flavorful Dish - Brazilian Fish Stew - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our Sliced Bread with Ciabatta and Oil or Spaghetti with Garlic and Oil. If you’re interested in healthy options, you might enjoy our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad as well.

For more information on the health benefits of seafood, visit Seafood Nutrition.

Brazilian Fish Stew: 7 Amazing Tips for a Flavorful Dish

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Author: Michael
Total Time: 65 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Experience an authentic Brazilian Fish Stew, or Moqueca Baiana, a delicious blend of fish, shrimp, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb Halibut (Can substitute with cod or snapper.)
½ lb Fresh Shrimp (Ensure peeled and deveined.)
Garlic (Fresh cloves boost aroma.)
1 medium White Onion (Must be sautéed.)
2 medium Bell Peppers (Use any color.)
2 tbsp Fresh Lime Juice (Brightens flavors.)
1 tbsp Kosher Salt (Amplifies flavor.)
1 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly cracked enhances taste.)
1 tbsp Smoked Sweet Paprika (Subtle smokiness.)
1 cup Epis (Garlicky blend for authenticity.)
14 oz Coconut Milk (Use full-fat for texture.)
14 oz Fire Roasted Tomatoes (Contributes umami.)
2 tbsp Palm Oil (Distinguishes flavor.)
½ cup Cilantro (Add brightness.)

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Instructions

Cut the halibut into 1-inch chunks and season with lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Marinate for 30 minutes.
Slice the onion and bell peppers. Mix remaining spices for easy access.
Heat palm oil in a skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then add onions and cook for 1 minute. Add bell peppers and cook until softened.
Stir in fire-roasted tomatoes, coconut milk, epis, and half of the spice mixture. Let it reduce for 8-10 minutes.
Remove 1 cup of sauce, add shrimp, and cook for 2 minutes on each side. Add halibut, top with reserved sauce, and simmer until fish is cooked through.
Garnish with extra cilantro before serving.