Authentic & Easy Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca) Recipe: A Flavorful One-Pot Wonder
Brazilian Fish Stew, traditionally known as Moqueca, is a truly exquisite dish. This vibrant and flavorful soup features tender, marinated tilapia, colorful bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and sweet onions, all harmoniously simmered in a rich, creamy coconut milk broth. It’s an absolute delight for the taste buds! What’s even better is that this quick and easy fish stew comes together to perfection in just 30 minutes, requiring very little effort. Get ready to add this incredible recipe to your weekly rotation!
Brazilian Fish Stew: A Comfort Food for All Seasons
For many, stews are synonymous with chilly weather and are often considered the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming up on a crisp afternoon. While I might not always gravitate towards stews myself, I must confess, this particular Brazilian Fish Stew, or Moqueca, completely captivates my attention!
I know, I know – not being a huge fan of stews might sound a little crazy for someone who loves to cook! Most stews just don’t typically appeal to me. It takes an truly amazing stew recipe to truly grab my interest and make me want to dive in. And this Moqueca? It does exactly that! I’m confident it will capture your attention and your heart, too.
What makes this Moqueca so special are the layers of incredibly appetizing flavors. From the bright, tangy zest of fresh lime to the luscious, creamy texture of coconut milk, every spoonful is a journey. Vibrant bell peppers, sweet onions, and ripe tomatoes contribute additional splashes of color, texture, and a foundational sweetness that balances the dish beautifully. A generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro at the end adds that irresistible touch of bright freshness, elevating the entire experience.
If you’re already a fan of fish stews or stews in general, then this Brazilian Fish Stew is an absolute must-try – you are going to adore it! And even if, like my former self, you don’t typically find yourself craving stews, I urge you to give this one a chance. Its unique profile and delightful taste might just convert you!
If you’re constantly seeking out more delicious seafood options, you should definitely try these Air Fryer Fish Sticks for another wonderfully easy and satisfying meal.
Choosing the Best Fish for Your Moqueca (Brazilian Fish Stew)
While tilapia sometimes gets an unfair reputation, I firmly believe it’s an excellent choice for fish soup and fish stew recipes, especially for a vibrant Moqueca. Its mild flavor ensures it doesn’t overpower the delicate notes of the coconut milk and spices, making it palatable even for those who are sensitive to “fishy” tastes. Tilapia also cooks quickly and maintains a firm, flaky texture in soups and stews, adding a substantial and hearty element to the dish.
For this particular Brazilian fish stew recipe, tilapia proved to be the perfect selection due to its mildly-flavored profile and dense, satisfying texture. However, if tilapia isn’t readily available or if you prefer an alternative, the best substitutes are other firm, white-fleshed fish. Excellent options include cod, haddock, grouper, snapper, or even halibut. These varieties will hold their shape well during simmering and absorb the rich flavors of the broth beautifully.
One of the many joys of this Brazilian fish stew is how wonderfully it tastes the next day! In fact, many argue that Moqueca is even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld and deepen overnight. So, if you happen to have any leftovers of this delicious stew, simply reheat it gently the following day for an even more exquisite meal. I particularly love to pair it with my favorite sausage mozzarella sandwich, creating a truly unique and satisfying combination.
Key Ingredients for this Irresistible Fish Stew Recipe
- Tilapia fillets: A wonderful choice for this stew, offering a mild flavor and firm texture that holds up well during cooking without falling apart. You can also use cod, haddock, or grouper.
- Bell pepper and onion strips: These vibrant vegetables provide a sweet and savory base. Using frozen strips is a fantastic time-saver, helping you get this recipe on the table in a flash!
- Canned diced tomatoes: A pantry staple in most kitchens, diced tomatoes add a crucial acidic balance, a touch of sweetness, and contribute to the stew’s beautiful color and robust body.
- Light coconut milk: This is the star of the broth, lending a delightful sweet, nutty, and wonderfully creamy flavor that is characteristic of authentic Moqueca. Opting for light coconut milk keeps the dish rich without being overly heavy.
- Fresh cilantro: A generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro is essential for its bright, herbaceous, and incredibly fresh finish, adding a pop of color and an aromatic lift.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice provides the perfect amount of tangy acidity, cutting through the richness of the coconut milk and brightening all the other flavors in the stew.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, olive oil also adds another subtle layer of richness and flavor to the overall stew base.
- Garlic, cumin, paprika, salt and pepper: These aromatic spices create a simple yet incredibly effective marinade for the fish, infusing it with deep, savory flavors even before it hits the pot.
More Effortless One-Pot Meals You’ll Love
If you appreciate the simplicity and deliciousness of this one-pot Brazilian fish stew, then you’re definitely in for a treat with some of my other favorite low-maintenance, high-flavor recipes. Be sure to explore my super easy chicken pot pie and my comforting chicken potato bake. These dishes are consistently huge hits with my family, proving that incredible meals don’t have to be complicated!
Frequently Asked Questions About Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca)
How long will Brazilian fish stew keep, and can I make it ahead?
This Brazilian fish stew is truly fantastic for making ahead of time, as the flavors tend to deepen and meld beautifully overnight, often tasting even better on day two! You can safely store this stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just be aware that the texture of the fish might become slightly softer after freezing and thawing, but the flavor will still be wonderful.
What is another name for Brazilian fish stew, and what are other popular fish stews globally?
The traditional name for Brazilian Fish Stew is Moqueca. It’s a culinary treasure with two main regional variations: Moqueca Capixaba (from Espírito Santo, made without palm oil) and Moqueca Baiana (from Bahia, which famously includes dende oil and coconut milk). Beyond Brazil, many cultures boast their own beloved fish or seafood stews, each with unique characteristics and flavors!
- Bouillabaisse from France: A rich and complex fish soup from Marseille, often featuring a variety of Mediterranean fish and seafood, saffron, and herbs.
- Cioppino from San Francisco: An Italian-American fish stew believed to have originated with Portuguese and Italian fishermen in San Francisco, featuring a tomato-based broth and a medley of seafood.
- Maeutang from Korea: A spicy and hearty Korean fish stew, typically made with cod or pollock, tofu, and an array of vegetables in a fiery broth.
- Caldo de Pescado from Mexico: A comforting Mexican fish soup, often featuring a vibrant tomato broth with chili, lime, and fresh herbs.
You can find a complete listing of stews (with recipes!) here! to explore the rich diversity of fish stews around the world.
What type of fish is best for this Moqueca?
Traditionally, a firm, white-fleshed fish is the preferred choice for Moqueca to ensure it holds its integrity and texture during the simmering process. Halibut or cod are classic options known for their mild flavor and firm flesh. However, you have great flexibility to mix it up with other delicious choices such as snapper, haddock, or grouper. For this recipe, I opted for tilapia, and it worked beautifully.
Tilapia is an excellent and often underrated choice due to its incredibly mild flavor, making it a fantastic lean protein source that is also very affordable. Because it doesn’t have a strong “fishy” taste, even the pickiest eaters and kids tend to love this meal, making it a perfect family-friendly option!
What do you serve alongside Brazilian Fish Stew?
Without a doubt, the quintessential accompaniment for any stew, and especially this rich and flavorful Moqueca, is crusty bread! It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of the amazing, creamy broth. Here are some of my favorite easy-to-make bread recipes that pair perfectly with this meal:
Beyond bread, consider serving your Moqueca with a side of fluffy white rice, which is excellent for soaking up the broth. Some traditional Brazilian accompaniments include farofa (toasted cassava flour) or pirão (a creamy fish porridge made with the broth). A simple green salad would also offer a refreshing contrast.
How to Make Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca) – Step by Step Guide
Creating this vibrant and comforting Brazilian Fish Stew is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps to bring the flavors of Brazil into your kitchen:
Step 1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the fresh lime juice, ground cumin, paprika, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well mixed, forming a fragrant and flavorful marinade.
Step 2. Marinate the Tilapia
Add the tilapia fillets (cut in half) to the bowl with the marinade. Gently toss the fish until each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 20 minutes. For an even stronger and more developed flavor, you can marinate the fish for a few hours or even overnight.
Step 3. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the frozen bell pepper and onion strips to the hot oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to thaw and soften slightly, which usually takes about 3 minutes.
Step 4. Add Tomatoes and Marinated Fish
Once the peppers and onions have softened, add the drained diced tomatoes and the marinated tilapia fillets to the skillet. Gently mix these ingredients together, ensuring the fish is nestled among the vegetables.
Step 5. Simmer in Coconut Milk
Carefully pour the light unsweetened coconut milk over all the ingredients in the skillet. Stir gently to combine everything, then cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. This simmering allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the fish to cook through.
Step 6. Finish with Cilantro and Serve
In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh chopped cilantro (this step is optional, but highly recommended for an authentic touch and bright finish). Cook until the tilapia is flaky and cooked through. Garnish with additional fresh cilantro and a lime wedge (if desired) before serving immediately. Enjoy your homemade Brazilian Fish Stew!
Why You’ll Love Making This Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca)
This Moqueca recipe offers a multitude of reasons to become a regular in your kitchen:
- Quick and Easy Family Dinner! Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a flavorful meal without the fuss.
- Minimal Cleanup! Being a one-pot meal means significantly less washing up after dinner, giving you more time to relax.
- A Guaranteed Family Favorite! The mild fish, creamy broth, and vibrant flavors make it appealing to almost everyone, even picky eaters.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from the fish and essential vitamins from the vegetables and coconut milk, it’s a wholesome meal you can feel good about.
- Customizable: Easily adapt it to your taste preferences by adding more spice, different vegetables, or a mix of seafood.
- Great for Meal Prep: As mentioned, it tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent option for healthy packed lunches or quick reheatable dinners.
More Delicious Soup Recipes to Warm Your Soul
If you’re a soup lover, or simply enjoy comforting, flavorful meals, here are some other fantastic soup recipes from my blog that I highly recommend:
Creative Variations for Your Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca)
While this recipe is perfect as is, Moqueca is also incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand:
- For an even fresher flavor profile, take the time to use fresh bell peppers (2 large, sliced into strips) and fresh onion (1 large, chopped) instead of frozen. The slight caramelization of fresh vegetables can add an extra depth.
- Don’t limit yourself to tilapia! Try different types of mild white fish like cod, haddock, grouper, or even snapper for varied textures and flavors.
- Elevate your Moqueca by adding other seafood! Try it with succulent shrimp, tender calamari, or even a convenient frozen seafood medley for a more luxurious stew.
- To make your Moqueca an even heartier one-bowl meal, stir in some cooked rice or pasta directly into the stew during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Add a touch of heat! For those who enjoy a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño or habanero pepper can be incorporated with the onions and bell peppers.
- Boost the vegetable content by adding other quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, chopped zucchini, or even a handful of frozen corn kernels.
- For an extra layer of authentic flavor (especially if aiming for Moqueca Baiana), a tablespoon of dende (palm) oil can be added when sautéing the vegetables.
Craving More Seafood? Explore These Delicious Recipes!
I often find myself on a kick with certain ingredients, and seafood is definitely one of them! If you’re looking for more fantastic ways to incorporate fish and seafood into your diet, here are some of my top recommendations:
This Baked Calamari Recipe is a healthier, lightened-up version of the ever-popular fried calamari, but it sacrifices none of the delicious flavor or satisfying texture! It’s a fantastic appetizer or light main.
For a taste of Mexico, try this Mexican Fish Soup (Caldo de Pescado), a hearty and comforting soup loaded with vibrant flavors, made with homemade fish broth and a zesty, spicy tomato sauce.
Looking for something truly unique? Try this amazing Shrimp Grilled Cheese! It’s surprisingly easy to make and your family will absolutely adore this creative and decadent twist on a classic comfort food.
Or check out this delightful canned or imitation crab cake recipe (you can use either for convenience!). These crab cakes are so incredibly good, your family will think you ordered take-out from a fancy seafood restaurant!
Your New Favorite Fish Stew: Brazilian Moqueca!
I truly hope you love this incredible Brazilian Fish Stew as much as I do! If you enjoy this recipe, please consider giving it a 5 star ⭐ rating below – your feedback means the world to me and helps others discover this amazing dish! And if you do make it, I would absolutely love to see your creations! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram. You can find me at @DizzyBusyandHungry or use the hashtag #dizzybusyandhungry!
📋 Recipe Card
Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca)
Kristin
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15 minutes
25 minutes
6
people
Ingredients
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 1.5 tablespoons cumin
- 1.5 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ tablespoon salt
- ½ tablespoon pepper
- 2 pounds tilapia fillets, cut in half (they can be frozen, just thaw slightly to cut)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces frozen pepper and onion strips (1 bag)
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes, drained (1 can)
- 14 ounces light unsweetened coconut milk (1 can)
- 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
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Instructions
-
Combine the lime juice, cumin, paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.¼ cup lime juice,
1.5 tablespoons cumin,
1.5 tablespoons paprika,
1 tablespoon minced garlic,
½ tablespoon salt,
½ tablespoon pepper -
Add in the tilapia and mix until coated.2 pounds tilapia fillets, cut in half
-
Cover and place in the refrigerator to marinate for 20 minutes or so.
-
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or casserole over medium-high heat. Add the peppers and onions and cook until they begin to thaw, about 3 minutes.1 tablespoon olive oil,
12 ounces frozen pepper and onion strips -
Add the tomatoes and marinated tilapia and mix them in.14 ounces diced tomatoes, drained
-
Pour the coconut milk over everything, mix and cover, and simmer about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.14 ounces light unsweetened coconut milk
-
In the last few minutes, stir in the cilantro (optional).1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
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When the tilapia is cooked through, garnish with additional cilantro (if desired) and serve.
Notes
- To save valuable time, prepare the marinade and coat the tilapia ahead of time (even the night before!) and store it in the refrigerator. This allows for quick cooking when you’re ready.
- While marinating time is optional, it truly results in the best and most deeply infused flavor. However, on occasions when I’ve skipped this step due to time constraints, the stew has still turned out absolutely delicious.
- If you prefer to use fresh ingredients, you’ll need 2 large bell peppers, cut into strips, and 1 medium onion, chopped, in place of the frozen variety.
- Don’t be alarmed if the coconut milk appears a little lumpy when you first add it to the pot. As it heats and cooks, it will smoothly combine with the rest of the stew, creating a creamy texture.
- Keep a close eye on the fish during simmering. The tilapia is done when it starts to flake easily as you stir. It’s best to avoid overcooking to maintain its tender texture, so remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches this point.
Video
Nutrition
Calories:
260
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
11
g
|
Protein:
31
g
|
Fat:
9
g
|
Saturated Fat:
5
g
|
Cholesterol:
75
mg
|
Sodium:
232
mg
|
Potassium:
744
mg
|
Fiber:
2
g
|
Sugar:
5
g
|
Vitamin A:
1985
IU
|
Vitamin C:
86.7
mg
|
Calcium:
44
mg
|
Iron:
1.8
mg
Nutritional information is an estimate. The nutritional values for your final dish may vary based on measuring differences and products used.
Did you enjoy this recipe?
I would love to hear about it! Please leave a rating and a review to let me know, so I can continue to provide recipes that you will love!!
Adapted from Allrecipes.com. I’ve served Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca) many times, and it has consistently been a big hit with everyone!
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