Brazilian Shrimp Stew with Coconut Milk (Moqueca de Camarão)
A Brazilian shrimp stew made with coconut milk, lime, and colorful peppers. This version skips palm oil for a Med Diet–friendly twist.
Servings: 4
Calories: 457kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp 16-20 count per lb, shelled & cleaned
- 3 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced divided
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt divided
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 onion sliced
- 3 bell peppers multi colored: red, orange or yellow, seeded and thinly sliced
- 2 tsp sweet paprika
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup fresh tomatoes diced
- 2 scallions
- 1 can coconut milk 13.5 oz can
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with lime juice, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the garlic, ¼ teaspoon salt, and the black pepper. Let marinate for 15 to 30 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
- Add the remaining garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, scallions, and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, then pour in the coconut milk. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Nestle the shrimp into the stew and gently toss to combine. Return to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the shrimp are opaque and fully cooked, about 6 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped cilantro. Serve hot with a squeeze of lime juice.
Notes
- Don’t over-marinate the shrimp: Lime juice can “cook” the shrimp if left too long—30 minutes is the max.
- Coconut milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for best flavor and texture. “Light” coconut milk is just watered down and often contains gums.
- Cilantro substitute: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, chopped flat-leaf parsley works well for color and freshness.
- Optional finish: For a touch of heat and richness reminiscent of traditional dendê oil, add a drizzle of homemade chili oil when serving.
- Rice options: White rice is traditional, but for a Mediterranean Diet–friendly meal, try brown rice, farro, or quinoa.
Nutrition
Calories: 457kcal | Total Carbohydrate: 19g | Protein: 20g | Total Fat: 36g | Saturated Fat: 23g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 143mg | Sodium: 959mg | Potassium: 782mg | Dietary Fiber: 6g | Total Sugars: 10g | Vitamin A: 3973IU | Vitamin C: 130mg | Vitamin D: 0.1µg | Calcium: 109mg | Iron: 3mg | Includes Added Sugar: 0g