Discover the flavors of Brazil with this traditional and delightful salmon stew, known as Moqueca. This hearty dish is a vibrant mix of fresh salmon, colorful bell peppers, tangy tomatoes and creamy coconut milk. With its unique combination of spices and ingredients, it's a meal that is sure to impress and satisfy.
Photos of Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca) Recipe
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every kitchen. Sweet paprika, ground cumin, and coconut milk are key components of this dish that lend it an authentic Brazilian flavor. When you head over to the supermarket, ensure you pick up these ingredients, along with fresh salmon, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
Ingredients for Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca)
Garlic: Used in marinade for salmon, its pungent flavor enhances the overall taste.
Lime juice: Adds a tangy element to the marinade.
Sweet paprika: Provides mild sweetness and vibrant color.
Ground cumin: Lends an earthy flavor.
Salmon: The star of the dish, rich in flavor and healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Olive oil: Used for cooking and layering, it adds richness to the dish.
Onions: Provides a sweet and tangy base.
Green bell pepper: Adds crunch and a touch of bitterness.
Tomatoes: Gives tangy flavor and saucy texture.
Coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a tropical taste.
Cilantro: Brings freshness and lightness to the stew.
One reader, Alison Banuelos says:
This Brazilian salmon stew recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and the salmon just melts in your mouth. The combination of coconut milk and fresh cilantro creates a rich and aromatic broth that's simply irresistible. It's a must-try for anyone who loves seafood and exotic flavors!
Techniques Required for Making Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca)
Marinating the salmon: Mix together the marinade ingredients and let the salmon marinate in the paste for at least 2 hours. The longer, the better.
Layering the ingredients: In a large pan, coat the bottom with olive oil. Add a layer of sliced onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Place the marinated fish pieces on top and layer again with onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
Simmering the stew: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30 minutes to an hour, until the vegetables are cooked through.
How To Make Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca)
Taking inspiration from the Brazilian fish stew, this salmon stew first marinates in garlic, lime, & cumin before cooking in coconut milk & bell peppers.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Marinade:
- ½cloveshead of garlic,peeled, crushed, minced
- 2tbspfresh lime juice
- 3/4tspcoarse salt
- 1tbspsweet paprika
- 2½tspground cumin
- 1½tspfreshly ground black pepper
For Stew:
- 2lbssalmon,cut into 2 inch pieces, largish-bite sized pieces
- extra virgin olive oil
- 2mediumonions,sliced
- 1largegreen bell pepper,seeded, de-stemmed, and sliced
- 2mediumtomatoes,sliced
- salt and freshly ground pepper
- 14ozcoconut milk,(not light)
- 1cupfresh cilantro,chopped
Instructions
-
Mix together the marinade ingredients. Let the salmon marinate in this paste for at least 2 hours. The longer, the better.
-
In a large pan (large covered skillet or Dutch oven), coat the bottom of the pan with a couple tablespoons of olive oil. Add a layer of sliced onions, and then a layer of sliced bell peppers, and a layer of sliced tomatoes. Place the fish pieces, with the marinade, on top of everything, and start layering again—onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
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Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Add about half of the fresh cilantro to the top. Pour coconut milk over the top. Drizzle generously with olive oil over the top (several tablespoons).
-
Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and let simmer for 30 minutes to 1 hour, until the vegetables are cooked through. Garnish with remaining cilantro.
Nutrition
- Calories: 474.43kcal
- Fat: 30.57g
- Saturated Fat: 13.53g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.84g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.22g
- Carbohydrates: 24.64g
- Fiber: 3.01g
- Sugar: 3.16g
- Protein: 28.52g
- Cholesterol: 62.37mg
- Sodium: 708.17mg
- Calcium: 137.34mg
- Potassium: 934.08mg
- Iron: 3.89mg
- Vitamin A: 45.14µg
- Vitamin C: 45.00mg
Expert Technique Tip for Perfecting Brazilian Salmon Stew
When marinating the salmon, ensure that it is fully submerged in the marinade for optimal flavor absorption. If the marinade doesn't fully cover the fish, you can periodically turn the salmon to ensure every part gets marinated. Also, using a non-reactive dish like glass or ceramic for marinating can prevent any unwanted chemical reactions between the marinade and the dish material.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Moqueca
Marinate efficiently: To save time, marinate the salmon the night before or in the morning, so it's ready to cook when you are.
Prep ingredients in advance: Chop and prepare all the vegetables and spices ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes to cut down on prep time.
Opt for pre-marinated salmon: If available, consider purchasing pre-marinated salmon to skip the marinating step altogether.
Quick simmer: Increase the heat and simmer for a shorter time to expedite the cooking process without compromising flavor.
Efficient layering: Layer the ingredients quickly and efficiently to save time during the assembly process.
Multi-task: While the stew is simmering, use that time to prepare side dishes or set the table to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca) Recipe
- garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a mild, sweet flavor that can provide a similar aromatic base to the dish.
- lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide a similar level of acidity and brightness to the dish.
- coarse salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and texture to the dish.
- sweet paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a depth of flavor and smokiness similar to sweet paprika.
- ground cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can provide a similar earthy and citrusy flavor to the dish.
- freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a milder heat and flavor similar to black pepper.
- salmon - Substitute with sea bass: Sea bass has a similar firm texture and rich flavor that can work well in the stew.
- extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle tropical flavor that complements the coconut milk in the dish.
- onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, sweeter flavor that complements the dish.
- green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell pepper can provide a similar sweetness and color to the dish.
- tomatoes - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell pepper can provide a similar sweetness and color to the dish.
- coconut milk - Substitute with cashew cream: Cashew cream can provide a creamy, nutty base similar to coconut milk.
- fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can provide a similar herbaceous freshness to the dish.
Presenting Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca) for Maximum Appeal
Elevate the plating: When presenting the Brazilian Salmon Stew, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the layers of colorful vegetables and salmon. The vibrant colors and textures will make the dish visually enticing.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped cilantro just before serving. The bright green color and aromatic flavor will add a pop of freshness to the stew, enhancing the overall presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil in an artistic pattern over the top of the stew. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also complements the flavors of the dish.
Use high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant, high-quality serving ware to elevate the dining experience. Consider using artisanal ceramic or porcelain bowls to present the stew, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Balance the portion sizes: Ensure that the portion sizes are balanced and visually appealing. The salmon, vegetables, and coconut milk should be proportionately distributed to create a harmonious and visually pleasing presentation.
Highlight the layers: When serving the stew, ensure that the layers of salmon, vegetables, and coconut milk are clearly visible. This will not only showcase the complexity of the dish but also demonstrate the care and attention to detail in its preparation.
Emphasize the vibrant colors: The natural colors of the ingredients should be highlighted in the presentation. The reds, greens, and oranges of the vegetables, along with the pink hues of the salmon, should be showcased to create an appetizing visual impact.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Moqueca
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for various kitchen tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for sautéing, frying, and searing ingredients.
Wooden spoon: A cooking utensil used for stirring, mixing, and tasting dishes.
Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting hot items such as meats and vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients.
Dutch oven: A heavy cooking pot with a tight-fitting lid, suitable for braising, stewing, and roasting.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for boiling, simmering, and making sauces.
Citrus juicer: A tool used for extracting juice from citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges.
Storing and Freezing Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca) for Later
Allow the brazilian salmon stew to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of condensation, which can lead to spoilage.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making the stew even more delicious.
If you plan to freeze the stew, follow these steps for the best results:
- Divide the cooled stew into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. This will allow you to thaw only what you need for future meals.
- Remove as much air as possible from the containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, ensuring they lie flat for even freezing and efficient storage.
- Brazilian salmon stew can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
To reheat the frozen stew, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, gently reheat the stew in a covered pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. Avoid boiling the stew, as this may cause the salmon to break apart.
If you prefer, you can also reheat the frozen stew directly from the freezer. Place the frozen stew in a covered pot and heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thaws and reaches the desired temperature. This method may take longer, but it's a convenient option when you forget to thaw the stew in advance.
To maintain the best texture and flavor of the salmon, avoid repeatedly freezing and thawing the stew. Try to consume the thawed portion within 1-2 days for optimal quality.
How To Reheat Leftover Brazilian Salmon Stew
Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover brazilian salmon stew to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the salmon and allows the flavors to meld together.
Reheat on the stovetop: place the leftover moqueca in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir gently and occasionally to prevent the stew from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Heat until the desired temperature is reached, adding a splash of coconut milk or water if needed to maintain the consistency.
Microwave reheating: transfer the leftover salmon stew to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the stew is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this may cause the salmon to become tough and rubbery.
Reheat in a slow cooker: if you have a small slow cooker or crock pot, you can reheat the leftover moqueca on the low setting for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is ideal if you want to reheat the stew slowly and allow the flavors to develop further.
Reheat and repurpose: if you have a small amount of leftover brazilian salmon stew, consider reheating it and serving it over a bed of rice, quinoa, or couscous. You can also use the reheated stew as a filling for tacos, burritos, or wraps, adding a new twist to the original dish.
Interesting Trivia About Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca)
The Brazilian salmon stew, also known as moqueca, is a traditional dish from the northeastern region of Brazil. It is a flavorful and aromatic seafood stew that combines the richness of coconut milk with the tangy flavors of lime and cilantro. This dish is a perfect example of the diverse culinary influences in Brazilian cuisine, blending indigenous, African, and Portuguese flavors. The use of fresh ingredients such as cilantro and coconut milk gives this dish a unique and vibrant taste that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Is Making Moqueca at Home Cost-Effective?
This Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca) Recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of salmon and coconut milk may increase the cost, but the dish's flavor and nutritional value make it worthwhile. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $30-$35. The rich blend of vegetables and salmon provides a satisfying and hearty meal. The dish's versatility and ability to serve a family make it a practical choice. Overall Verdict: 8.
Is Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca) Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Brazilian salmon stew (moqueca) recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the recipe's healthiness:
- Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice.
- The use of fresh vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Coconut milk, while adding a creamy texture and unique flavor, is high in saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation.
- The marinade ingredients, such as garlic, lime juice, and spices, add flavor without significantly increasing the calorie count.
- Olive oil, used for cooking and drizzling, is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats but should be used in moderation due to its caloric density.
To further enhance the healthiness of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:
- Use light coconut milk instead of regular to reduce the saturated fat content without compromising much on flavor and texture.
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish, such as adding carrots, zucchini, or spinach, to boost the fiber and nutrient content.
- Serve the stew with a side of whole grains, like brown rice or quinoa, to provide additional fiber and complex carbohydrates.
- Reduce the amount of added salt and rely more on the natural flavors of the ingredients and spices to keep sodium levels in check.
- Incorporate other herbs and spices, such as thyme, oregano, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor profile and provide additional antioxidants.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Brazilian Stew
This Brazilian salmon stew (moqueca) recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the salmon with zesty and aromatic notes, while the layering of vegetables adds depth to the dish. The use of coconut milk brings a rich and creamy element, complementing the natural richness of the salmon. The final touch of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious balance of savory, tangy, and creamy elements, making it a truly satisfying and flavorful dish.
Enhance Your Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Dishes to Try If You Love Moqueca
Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Moqueca Perfectly
Why trust this Brazilian Salmon Stew (Moqueca) Recipe:
This Brazilian salmon stew recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, showcasing the vibrant essence of Brazilian cuisine. The marinade, featuring garlic, lime juice, and a blend of aromatic spices, infuses the salmon with rich, zesty notes. Layered with onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, the dish promises a harmonious medley of fresh, wholesome ingredients. The addition of coconut milk lends a luscious creaminess, while the generous drizzle of olive oil enhances the overall depth of flavors. With its authentic preparation and tantalizing aromas, this recipe embodies the soul of Brazilian culinary traditions.
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