Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew) is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Brazil. This hearty stew, rich in coconut milk and fresh vegetables, is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of spices and tender fish creates a comforting meal that will please any palate. With its bold taste and beautiful presentation, moqueca is sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Flavorful Experience: The unique blend of coconut milk, spices, and fresh vegetables creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can use any firm white fish available, making it adaptable to your preferences or what’s on hand.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients from the fish and vegetables, this dish makes for a wholesome meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it over jasmine rice with vibrant garnishes for a visually stunning dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking moqueca, gather the essential tools that will make your preparation easier. Having everything ready allows for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing space for the stew to simmer.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for gently stirring without damaging the delicate fish pieces.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts through vegetables and fish.

this recipe

Ingredients

An impressive and easy Brazilian fish stew, moqueca can use any fish that’s available and is flavored with coconut milk, peppers, and bright lime zest.

For the Stew

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 yellow onion (diced)
• 1 jalapeño (diced, seeds removed if too spicy)
• 1 red bell pepper (seeds removed and sliced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (seeds removed and sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (add more if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 pounds cod (or other firm white fish, cut into large 1-2 inch pieces)
• 2 vine tomatoes (chopped, with their juices or 1 13-ounce can chopped tomatoes)
• 2 cups seafood stock (or vegetable stock)
• 13-ounce can coconut milk (full fat)
• 1 lime (zested + lime cut into wedges)
• 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)

For the Rice

• 1 cup jasmine rice (washed and rinsed)
• 2 cups vegetable stock
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (to taste)

How to Make Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by bringing a large pot to medium heat. Add the coconut oil and olive oil. Once melted:
– Add the diced onion and jalapeño. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
– Incorporate the sliced bell peppers and continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Spices & Tomatoes

Next:
– Stir in the chopped garlic, paprika, and cayenne. Cook for another 1-2 minutes so the garlic softens.
– Add chopped tomatoes with their juices. Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes until tomatoes soften.

Step 3: Prepare the Fish

Now it’s time to add the fish:
– Pat the cod dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper before laying it on top of the sautéed vegetables.

Step 4: Combine Liquids & Simmer

Pour in:
– The coconut milk and seafood stock. Add lime zest along with additional salt and pepper to taste.
– Gently stir with a spoon without disrupting the fish. Cover the pot with a lid slightly ajar to let some steam escape.

Step 5: Cook the Moqueca

Bring everything to a simmer:
– Cook moqueca for about 10-15 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flavors meld together.

Step 6: Serve

Once done:
– Taste for seasoning adjustments before serving. Ladle moqueca over cooked jasmine rice.
– Garnish with chopped green onions and lime wedges for that extra pop!

How to Serve Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

Moqueca is best enjoyed as a comforting and hearty dish that can be served in various delightful ways. You can elevate the meal experience by pairing it with sides or garnishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Pair it with Jasmine Rice

• Jasmine rice complements the moqueca perfectly, as it absorbs the flavorful broth and adds a subtle fragrance to the dish.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Adding fresh cilantro or parsley as a garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a fresh, herbal note that brightens the stew.

Serve with Lime Wedges

• Lime wedges allow diners to squeeze fresh juice over their portions, adding a zesty kick that balances the richness of the coconut milk.

Accompany with Crusty Bread

• A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the moqueca. It soaks up the delicious broth, making each bite more satisfying.

Enjoy with Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices provide a smooth texture contrast and richness that pairs wonderfully with the spices in the stew.

Offer Hot Sauce on the Side

• For spice lovers, serving hot sauce allows guests to customize their heat level, enhancing their overall dining experience.

How to Perfect Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

Creating an authentic moqueca requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh fish and vegetables make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for seasonal produce for the best taste.
• Balance Flavors: Taste as you cook and adjust seasoning. The balance between saltiness from fish stock and sweetness from coconut milk is key.
• Control Heat Levels: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less cayenne pepper. You can always add more later if desired.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the moqueca to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together, enhancing its overall taste.
• Experiment with Fish: While cod is traditional, try other firm white fish like halibut or tilapia for variety without changing the essence of this Brazilian dish.
• Garnish Creatively: Don’t hesitate to get creative with garnishes like diced mango or toasted coconut flakes for an unexpected twist.

Best Side Dishes for Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

Pairing your moqueca with complementary sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coconut Rice: Cook rice using coconut milk instead of water for added richness that ties into the stew’s flavors.
2. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains add a delightful contrast in flavor and texture while being easy to prepare.
3. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and earthiness that balance well with moqueca.
4. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the stew.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables offer smoky notes that complement the dish’s vibrant flavors beautifully.
6. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa adds brightness and zest, making it an excellent topping for both moqueca and rice.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lime provides additional nutrition while keeping things light.
8. Cornbread: Moist cornbread serves as an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover broth from your bowl.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew), it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning the fish and vegetables can lead to a bland dish. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as you cook for a flavorful stew.
• Using low-quality fish: Using fish that isn’t fresh or of good quality can ruin your moqueca. Choose firm white fish like cod, ensuring it is fresh for the best results.
• Not cooking the vegetables enough: Undercooking vegetables can result in a stew with uneven texture. Make sure to sauté them until they’re softened before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring the coconut milk quality: Using low-fat coconut milk may affect the creaminess of the stew. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for a richer flavor and texture.
• Rushing the cooking process: Cooking moqueca too quickly can lead to overcooked fish. Allow it to simmer gently so everything cooks evenly without drying out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store moqueca in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Moqueca can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew).

What type of fish is best for Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)?

Firm white fish such as cod works best, but you can also use other varieties like halibut or tilapia depending on availability.

Can I make Moqueca without seafood?

Yes! You can substitute seafood with hearty vegetables like eggplant and zucchini to create a delicious vegetarian version.

How spicy is Moqueca?

The spiciness of moqueca depends on how much jalapeño or cayenne you add. Adjust these ingredients according to your heat preference.

What sides go well with Moqueca?

Moqueca pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew) is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with different types of fish or vegetables based on your preferences. This dish brings vibrant flavors and warmth to any dinner table. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!

Print

Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Moqueca, a traditional Brazilian fish stew, is a delightful blend of fresh fish, creamy coconut milk, and vibrant vegetables. This comforting dish is bursting with flavor and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of sautéed peppers, spices, and tender fish creates an impressive meal that is both wholesome and visually appealing. Serve it over fragrant jasmine rice for the ultimate experience, garnished with lime wedges and green onions for an added touch of freshness.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 yellow onion (diced)
• 1 jalapeño (diced)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 2 pounds cod (or other firm white fish, cut into large 1–2 inch pieces)
• 2 cups seafood stock (or vegetable stock)
• 13-ounce can coconut milk
• Juice and zest of 1 lime
• Fresh green onions (for garnish)

---

Instructions

1. Heat coconut oil and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and jalapeño; sauté until softened.
2. Stir in sliced bell peppers, garlic, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper; cook for another few minutes.
3. Add cod pieces on top of the vegetables; pour in seafood stock and coconut milk. Stir gently to combine without breaking the fish.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover slightly ajar, and let cook for 10-15 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving over jasmine rice. Garnish with lime wedges and chopped green onions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: Use seasonal vegetables for enhanced flavor. For a vegetarian version, replace the fish with hearty vegetables like eggplant or zucchini. Experiment with different firm white fish like halibut or tilapia.