Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca Baiana)
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
25 mins
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Total Time
35 mins
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Servings
4 - 5
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Calories
367 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Brazilian
Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca Baiana)
Description
Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca Baiana) centers on firm white fish cut into cubes and marinated with lime juice, salt, pepper, and olive oil before being lightly pan-fried for a golden exterior. The broth includes sautéed garlic, onion, and red bell peppers combined with fragrant spices like cumin, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Coconut milk and crushed tomatoes add creamy richness and acidity, while fish or other broth is simmered with these ingredients to develop a thick, flavorful base.
The fish is gently returned to the broth to warm through without overcooking, preserving its texture. Lime juice stirred in at the end brightens the flavors, and fresh cilantro adds a herbal note. The resulting stew is creamy with layers of spice and tang balanced by the coconut milk's smoothness.
This stew suits serving over plain rice or lime-infused rice, with the option of cauliflower rice as a low-carb substitute. It is a dish that delivers a comforting yet vibrant seafood meal highlighting traditional Brazilian ingredients and flavors.
Firm white fish varieties such as snapper, mahi-mahi, or halibut work best to hold shape while cooking. Using full-fat coconut milk enriches the broth's flavor. Store-bought fish stock can be substituted but select a good quality product for best results.
Ingredients
Fish
- 1 lb / 500g white fish fillet no skin, cut into 1"/2.5cm cubes (Note 1, firm
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Broth
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil Note 4, or coconut oil
- 2 garlic minced, cloves
- 1 onion finely diced (brown, yellow or white, small
- 1 red bell pepper large), halved and sliced, or capsicum
- 1 1/2 tsp sugar (any)
- 1 tbsp cumin powder
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 14 oz / 400ml coconut milk (full fat best, Note 2)
- 14 oz / 400ml crushed tomatoes canned
- 1 cup fish broth or chicken or vegetable, Note 3, or fish stock
Finishes
- 1 - 2 tbsp lime juice , plus more for serving
- 3 tbsp cilantro plus more for serving, roughly chopped, fresh, aka coriander
Instructions
Fish
- Combine the fish, lime juice, oil, salt and pepper in a bowl. Cover with cling wrap and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
- Heat the 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the fish and cook until just cooked through and light golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Broth
- Reduce the stove to medium high and heat 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil in the same skillet. Add the garlic and onion and cook for 1 1/2 minutes or until the onion is starting to become translucent.
- Add the bell peppers and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the remaining Broth ingredients. Bring to simmer, then turn down to medium. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until it thickens. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the fish to the broth to reheat - about 2 minutes.
- Stir through lime juice.
- Garnish with cilantro/coriander and serve with rice or Lime Rice. For a low carb option, try Cauliflower Rice!
Notes
- Firm white fish like snapper, mahi-mahi, or halibut is preferred as it holds shape well during cooking.
- Full-fat coconut milk is ideal to add richness and flavor to the broth.
- If store-bought fish stock is used, choose a high-quality product or substitute with chicken or vegetable stock.
- This recipe is a personal adaptation combining traditional elements to create a flavorful, saucier stew.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4- 5
Amount Per Serving
Calories 367 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 609g | |
| Calories | 367cal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Protein | 29g | 58% |
| Fat | 19g | 29% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 63mg | 21% |
| Sodium | 917mg | 38% |
| Potassium | 917mg | 20% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 9g | 18% |
| Vitamin A | 2236IU | 45% |
| Vitamin C | 55mg | 61% |
| Calcium | 92mg | 9% |
| Iron | 4mg | 22% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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