Description
How to make Brazilian fish stew with coconut milk, fresh fish, and aromatic spices that creates the perfect comfort meal for chilly evenings at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 lbs firm white fish fillets, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
Flavor Builders
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup fish or vegetable stock
- 2 tbsp dendê oil or olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prep Fish: Pat fish fillets completely dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Cut into 2-inch chunks and set aside while you prepare the aromatic base.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat dendê oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5-6 minutes.
- Build Base: Add garlic, cumin, and paprika to the pot, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until aromatic. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they start breaking down.
- Add Liquids: Pour in coconut milk and stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne to taste, stirring well.
- Simmer Stew: Let the base simmer for 8-10 minutes until flavors meld and the broth thickens slightly. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy.
- Add Fish: Gently nestle fish chunks into the simmering broth. Cook for 4-5 minutes until fish flakes easily but doesn’t fall apart completely.
- Finish Stew: Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and fresh cilantro. Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve immediately with lime wedges alongside.
Notes
- Don’t add fish too early or it will overcook and fall apart into flakes.
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days for best quality.
- Substitute olive oil for dendê oil if unavailable without affecting overall taste.
- Serve over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious coconut broth.
- Gentle simmer prevents coconut milk from curdling and maintains smooth texture.
- Fresh lime juice added at the end brightens all the flavors beautifully.
Allergy Information: Fish
Nutrition
- Calories: 285 calories
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 24g