Moqueca Brazilian Fish Stew

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If you’re craving something comforting yet vibrant, Moqueca is the fish stew that will transport you straight to the Brazilian coast. This dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients, bold colors, and tropical flavors, simmered gently in a coconut milk broth with bright notes of lime and cilantro. It’s soul-warming and exotic, yet incredibly easy to pull together for a weeknight dinner.

What makes Moqueca unique is its cultural richness. It blends Indigenous, African, and Portuguese culinary traditions into one pot, often passed down through generations. The combination of fish, bell peppers, tomatoes, and creamy coconut milk makes it unforgettable. The final touch of lime juice and cilantro brings it all to life.

Why You’ll Love This Moqueca Brazilian Fish Stew

Moqueca is comfort food with a twist. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and packed with protein from fresh fish. The vibrant mix of bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions simmers into a flavor base that’s deepened by coconut milk and a splash of citrus. It feels both hearty and light, making it ideal for any season. Plus, the one-pot simplicity makes cleanup a breeze.

What Kind of Fish Should I Use for Moqueca?

You want a firm white fish that holds up well during cooking. Options like cod, halibut, snapper, or sea bass work beautifully. Avoid delicate fish that might flake apart too easily. If you have access to fresh local seafood, even better! Shrimp and scallops also make excellent additions or substitutions if you want to play with the protein mix.

Ingredients for the Moqueca Brazilian Fish Stew

The beauty of Moqueca lies in its fresh, simple ingredients. Each one contributes to the stew’s vibrant layers of flavor, and together they create something truly special.

• White fish fillets
• Fresh lime juice
• Garlic cloves
• Yellow onion
• Red bell pepper
• Yellow bell pepper
• Tomatoes
• Coconut milk
• Olive oil
• Cilantro
• Salt and pepper
• Palm oil (optional)

How To Make the Moqueca Brazilian Fish Stew

Step 1: Marinate the Fish

Start by seasoning the fish with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and lime juice. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes. This helps the fish soak up those zesty citrus flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil and optionally a bit of palm oil. Sauté sliced onions and bell peppers until they soften. Then add diced tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down and create a chunky sauce.

Step 3: Layer and Simmer

Place the marinated fish on top of the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the coconut milk gently and simmer on low heat. Let the stew cook without stirring too much so the fish stays intact. This usually takes about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Final Touch

Right before serving, sprinkle chopped cilantro and add a final splash of lime juice. Serve hot, straight from the pot.

How to Serve and Store Moqueca Brazilian Fish Stew

Moqueca is best enjoyed fresh and hot, served over fluffy white rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the rich broth. This recipe comfortably feeds four hungry people or stretches to six with sides.

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop, but avoid boiling, which can break apart the fish.

What to Serve With Moqueca?

White Rice

A classic pairing that absorbs the flavorful broth beautifully.

Farofa

Toasted cassava flour with a bit of butter or bacon for a crunchy, nutty contrast.

Plantain Chips

Crispy, slightly sweet plantains add a delicious Caribbean-style side.

Lime Slaw

A tangy, refreshing slaw with cabbage and lime juice complements the stew’s richness.

Coconut Rice

Cooked in coconut milk, it enhances the tropical notes of the Moqueca.

Sautéed Greens

Garlicky collards or kale provide a bit of bitter balance.

Grilled Corn

Adds smokiness and sweetness, perfect for scooping up the broth.

Crusty Bread

Ideal for mopping up every last drop of coconut-rich sauce.

Want More Seafood Ideas?

If this Moqueca Brazilian Fish Stew stole your heart, don’t miss out on these flavorful favorites:

• Flavorful Jerk Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and Crema
• Seafood Stuffed Shells Recipe
• Zesty Lime Shrimp and Avocado Salad
• Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta
• Lemon Butter Salmon with Roasted Potatoes & Broccoli

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it when you’re craving something tropical and comforting.

Let me know in the comments how your Moqueca turned out! Did you use fish, shrimp, or a mix of both? Did you go traditional with palm oil or keep it modern with olive?

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new weeknight staples!

Conclusion

Moqueca is the kind of meal that brings people together. It’s soulful, bright, and layered with flavor from the first spoonful to the last. If you’ve never tried Brazilian cuisine, this stew is a beautiful way to start. With just one pot and a few ingredients, you can bring a taste of Bahia to your table any night of the week.

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