Easy Brazilian Fish Stew

Name: Easy Brazilian Fish Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into chunks; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 onion, chopped; 2 tomatoes, diced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Home Recipes

Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil with this easy fish stew recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this dish is packed with fresh ingredients and spices that will transport your taste buds straight to the tropics.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-06T17:39:54.898Z

This Easy Brazilian Fish Stew, known as Moqueca, is a traditional dish from the coastal regions of Brazil. It's known for its rich and aromatic flavors, combining fresh fish with coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices. This recipe is a simplified version that anyone can make at home, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Brazil without any fuss.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Nutritious and light, ideal for a healthy meal

      

The Essence of Brazilian Cuisine

Brazilian cuisine is a beautiful tapestry of flavors and cultures, reflecting the country's diverse heritage. From the coastal regions to the Amazon rainforest, each area contributes unique ingredients and culinary techniques. This Easy Brazilian Fish Stew encapsulates the essence of Brazilian cooking, showcasing its vibrant ingredients like fresh fish, coconut milk, and aromatic spices. Each bite is a celebration of the country's rich culinary traditions, making it a perfect dish for anyone looking to explore new flavors.

One of the standout features of Brazilian cuisine is its emphasis on fresh, local produce. Ingredients like tomatoes, peppers, and cilantro are staples, often used to create dishes that are both satisfying and nutritious. In this fish stew, the combination of these fresh vegetables with the creamy coconut milk creates a delightful contrast that enhances the overall taste. Embracing these fresh ingredients not only elevates the dish but also aligns with a healthier dietary approach.

Perfect Pairings

When serving your Easy Brazilian Fish Stew, consider pairing it with traditional accompaniments that enhance the meal's overall experience. A side of fluffy white rice is a classic choice, as it absorbs the delicious coconut broth beautifully. Alternatively, serve it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the stew's flavors. For a refreshing contrast, a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette can add a bright touch to your dinner table.

Beverage pairings can also enhance your dining experience. A chilled glass of Brazilian caipirinha, made with cachaça, sugar, and lime, complements the stew's tropical flavors perfectly. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, coconut water or a refreshing tropical fruit juice can provide a delightful balance to the meal. These pairings create a complete dining experience that transports you straight to Brazil with every bite and sip.

Make It Your Own

One of the great aspects of this Easy Brazilian Fish Stew is its versatility. Feel free to substitute the white fish with your favorite seafood, such as shrimp or scallops, to customize the dish to your liking. Additionally, you can experiment with different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Adding some chopped spinach or kale can boost the nutritional value while imparting a lovely green color to the stew.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the pot. This will give your stew an extra kick while maintaining its delicious tropical flavors. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this recipe your own, ensuring that it reflects your personal tastes while still honoring the essence of Brazilian cuisine.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your fish stew.

For the Fish Stew

1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into chunks
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
1 onion, chopped
2 tomatoes, diced
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Easy Brazilian Fish Stew.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Add the diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften.

Incorporate Coconut Milk and Fish

Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the fish chunks and lime juice, cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the pot from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Easy Brazilian Fish Stew with rice or crusty bread!

Serve hot and enjoy the delightful flavors of this Brazilian classic!

Nutritional Benefits

This Easy Brazilian Fish Stew is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Fish is a great source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function. Additionally, the use of coconut milk provides healthy fats that can help improve cholesterol levels, making this dish a heart-friendly option for your dinner table.

The inclusion of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals to the dish. These ingredients are rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and promote overall health. By incorporating this fish stew into your meals, you're choosing a dish that is both flavorful and beneficial for your well-being.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your Easy Brazilian Fish Stew is simple. Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to three months. Just make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is quick and easy. Simply transfer the stew to a pot and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the stew has thickened in the fridge, you may want to add a splash of water or coconut milk to bring back its creamy consistency. Enjoy the delightful flavors all over again!

Culinary Inspiration

Exploring Brazilian cuisine can be an exciting culinary adventure. If you enjoyed making this Easy Brazilian Fish Stew, consider trying other traditional dishes like feijoada, a hearty black bean stew with pork, or moqueca, a rich fish stew with dendê oil and peppers. Each dish offers a unique taste of Brazil's diverse food culture, encouraging you to experiment with new flavors and ingredients.

You can also incorporate Brazilian-inspired sides into your meal repertoire. For example, pão de queijo, or cheese bread, makes a delightful accompaniment to many Brazilian dishes. As you delve deeper into Brazilian cooking, you'll discover a world of flavors that will keep your meals exciting and enjoyable, whether for special occasions or everyday dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just ensure it's fully thawed before adding it to the stew.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add vegetables like zucchini, corn, or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

This recipe is already dairy-free, as it uses coconut milk instead of dairy products.