Moqueca is a traditional Brazilian seafood stew bursting with rich flavors from coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and the distinct touch of dendê oil (red palm oil). This dish is a beloved staple in Brazil, especially in the states of Bahia and Espírito Santo, where it has regional variations.
If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting, and exotic dish to impress your family and friends, this authentic moqueca recipe is a must-try!
What is Moqueca?
Moqueca (pronounced mo-keh-ka) is a slow-cooked seafood stew with a vibrant blend of ingredients that create a rich and aromatic dish. Unlike many stews that rely on heavy broths, moqueca is light yet creamy due to the use of coconut milk.
There are two main types of moqueca:
- Moqueca Baiana (from Bahia) – Made with coconut milk, dendê (palm oil), and often includes shrimp or fish.
- Moqueca Capixaba (from Espírito Santo) – A lighter version made with olive oil instead of palm oil and without coconut milk.
Both versions are delicious, but today, we’ll focus on Moqueca Baiana, the most well-known and flavorful variety!
Ingredients for Moqueca
For the Stew:
- 1 ½ lbs (700g) firm white fish (such as cod, halibut, or snapper), cut into chunks
- ½ lb (225g) shrimp (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
- ½ cup (120ml) fish or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp dendê oil (red palm oil)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- Lime wedges
- Extra chopped cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Fish
- Place the fish chunks in a bowl and squeeze the lime juice over them.
- Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Let the fish marinate for 15-20 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté until soft (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and let them cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Simmer the Moqueca
- Pour in the coconut milk and fish broth, stirring to combine.
- Gently place the marinated fish (and shrimp if using) into the pot.
- Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
Step 4: Add the Dendê Oil & Cilantro
- Drizzle in the dendê oil and stir gently to incorporate its vibrant color and unique flavor.
- Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the stew and let it cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve your moqueca hot over a bed of white rice.
- Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for added brightness.
- Enjoy with a side of farofa (toasted cassava flour) for an authentic Brazilian touch!
Tips for the Best Moqueca
- Choose firm white fish that won’t fall apart while simmering.
- Dendê oil adds authenticity, but if unavailable, use extra virgin olive oil with a pinch of turmeric for color.
- Don’t overcook the seafood—fish and shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to maintain their tenderness.
- Marinate the fish for enhanced flavor, but don’t let it sit for too long, as lime juice can break down the flesh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Moqueca Without Dendê Oil?
Yes! While dendê oil provides the characteristic Bahia-style flavor, you can substitute it with olive oil and a pinch of paprika or turmeric to mimic the color.
What Fish is Best for Moqueca?
Firm white fish like cod, halibut, snapper, sea bass, or grouper work best. Avoid delicate fish that might fall apart.
Can I Make Moqueca Ahead of Time?
Yes! Moqueca tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I Add Other Seafood?
Absolutely! Many variations include shrimp, scallops, mussels, or even lobster.
Final Thoughts
Moqueca is a vibrant, comforting, and delicious Brazilian dish that brings tropical flavors straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re new to Brazilian cuisine or looking to recreate a favorite dish from your travels, this moqueca recipe is easy to make and full of bold flavors.
Give it a try and let us know how it turned out! If you love Brazilian food, check out our other recipes for Feijoada, Pão de Queijo, and more!
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