What is moqueca de camarão?

Moqueca de Camarao is a traditional Brazilian shrimp stew, particularly popular in the northeastern state of Bahia. It's known for its creamy, flavorful broth made with coconut milk, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, all gently simmered with succulent shrimp.

What does moqueca mean in English?

The word "moqueca" refers to a type of Brazilian stew, often cooked in a clay pot. While there isn't a direct single-word translation, it generally refers to the method of cooking a fish or seafood stew slowly without much water, allowing the ingredients to release their own liquids and flavors.

Is shrimp stew healthy?

Yes, Moqueca de Camarao is generally considered a very healthy dish! Shrimp provides lean protein, while coconut milk offers healthy fats. The stew is packed with nutrient-rich vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic, which are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It's a balanced meal that supports overall well-being.

What is the best fish for moqueca?

While this recipe focuses on Moqueca de Camarao (shrimp), if you were to make a fish moqueca, the best fish would be firm, white-fleshed varieties that hold their shape well during cooking. Great choices include cod, halibut, mahi-mahi, snapper, or even tilapia.

Easy Moqueca de Camarao: The #1 Easiest Shrimp Stew!

Name: Moqueca de Camarao
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Brazilian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil or dendê oil (palm oil, traditional); 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 2 medium tomatoes, chopped; 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); Cooked white rice, for serving

Description

A vibrant and flavorful Brazilian shrimp stew made with coconut milk, bell peppers, tomatoes, and fresh herbs is a comforting and easy one-pan seafood dish.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil or dendê oil (palm oil, traditional)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
2 medium tomatoes, chopped
1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, season shrimp with lime juice, minced garlic, and salt. Set aside to marinate for 15 minutes.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil (or dendê oil) over medium heat.
3. Add sliced onions and bell peppers, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, paprika, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 5–6 minutes until the tomatoes break down.
5. Pour in the coconut milk, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 3–4 minutes.
7. Stir in chopped cilantro and green onions.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or lime juice as needed.
9. Serve hot over white rice, garnished with extra herbs.

Notes

Dendê oil (red palm oil) gives this dish its authentic flavor, but olive oil can be used for a milder taste.
Use fresh, wild-caught shrimp for the best texture and sweetness.
For a vegetarian version, substitute shrimp with hearts of palm or tofu.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Brazilian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 340
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 190mg

Keywords: moqueca, shrimp stew, Brazilian, seafood, coconut milk, easy dinner