Description
This Brazilian Fish Stew is a vibrant, nutritious, and authentic coastal dish bursting with fresh ingredients like flaky white fish, creamy coconut milk, and bright citrus. Ready in under 30 minutes, it balances zesty, creamy, and savory flavors for a wholesome, light meal perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Broth
- 400g firm white fish fillets (cod, snapper, or halibut), cut into chunks
- 400ml coconut milk
- 500ml fish or vegetable broth
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), diced
- 3 fresh tomatoes, diced
Seasonings and Herbs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant to build the stew’s base flavor.
- Add Peppers and Tomatoes: Stir in diced bell peppers and fresh tomatoes. Cook until softened and juicy, creating a bright, colorful broth foundation.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle paprika, cumin, and chili flakes into the pot, stirring to toast the spices and release their aromas, adding warmth and complexity.
- Pour Coconut Milk and Broth: Add coconut milk and fish or vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, blending the flavors.
- Add the Fish: Place the fish fillets gently into the simmering stew, spooning some broth over them. Cover and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs and Lime: Just before serving, stir in chopped cilantro and freshly squeezed lime juice to brighten and freshen the stew.
Notes
- Choose firm fish to prevent fillets from breaking apart during cooking.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best vibrant acidity.
- Simmer gently instead of boiling rapidly to meld flavors better.
- Adjust coconut milk quantity for desired creaminess or lighter broth.
- Season gradually and taste often to perfectly balance flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 300g)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg