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Brazilian Fish Stew

Irresistible Brazilian Fish Stew for Cozy Nights In

This Brazilian Fish Stew, or Moqueca, is a quick, creamy delight ready in just 30 minutes, catering to various dietary preferences.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Brazilian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 1 pound firm white fish such as halibut or mahi-mahi
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice or lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil preferably coconut oil, olive oil is an alternative
  • 1 medium onion any variety
  • 1 medium red bell pepper can substitute with other bell peppers
  • 1 medium carrot other root veggies can be used
  • 1 medium jalapeño pepper optional for spice
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt kosher salt also works
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, fresh is best
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika enhances depth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 3 cups broth fish, chicken, or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup fresh tomatoes or canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can coconut milk light coconut milk for a lighter dish
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro can substitute with parsley
  • 2 tablespoons scallion optional
  • 2 pieces lime wedges to serve

Equipment

  • large pot
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • measuring cups
  • spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by rinsing your firm white fish under cold water, then patting it dry with paper towels. Cut the fish into 2-inch pieces and marinate with fresh lime juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Let the fish sit for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors while you prepare the vegetables and aromatics.
  2. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion turns translucent.
  3. Stir in the chopped red bell pepper, sliced carrots, and optional jalapeño pepper into the pot. Cook for an additional 3 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle in sea salt and minced garlic cloves, stirring for about 1 minute. Then, add the tomato paste, paprika, and ground cumin to the pot.
  5. Pour in 3 cups of your preferred broth, followed by crushed tomatoes and coconut milk. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce it to a simmer for approximately 8 minutes.
  6. Gently nestle the marinated fish pieces into the simmering mixture. Cover the pot and let it simmer for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and cooked through.
  7. Once cooked, stir in chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to brighten the flavors. Adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 350IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This stew can be served over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.

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