Camarão Moqueca

Background and History

Camarão Moqueca is a traditional Brazilian dish that hails from Bahia, a vibrant state in northeastern Brazil known for its rich culinary heritage. This dish is a delightful stew made primarily from shrimp, coconut milk, and dendê oil, highlighting African influences in Bahian cuisine. Over the years, this exquisite dish has garnered popularity not only throughout Brazil but also around the world, appreciated for its unique blend of flavors and aromas that offer a truly authentic taste of Brazilian culture. It is typically served with rice and farofa, enhancing the rich, savory notes of the stew.

Ingredients

• Shrimp - 1kg
• Lime - 2, juiced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Red bell pepper - 1, sliced
• Green bell pepper - 1, sliced
• Tomatoes - 3, diced
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Coconut milk - 400ml
• Dendê oil - 1 tablespoon
• Cilantro - 1 bunch, chopped
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Preparation

Begin by marinating the shrimp with lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. As the shrimp marinates, prepare the vegetables by chopping the onion, slicing the bell peppers, and dicing the tomatoes. Ensure your garlic is minced and ready as well. These ingredients form the flavorful base of the stew.

Cooking Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell peppers. Sauté these ingredients for about 5 minutes until they are softened but not browned. Next, incorporate the diced tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and meld with the other ingredients. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the marinated shrimp to the simmering broth. Cook for approximately 10 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Stir in the dendê oil for an authentic touch of Bahian cuisine. Finish by seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed, and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

The best way to enjoy Camarão Moqueca is to serve it hot, accompanied by fluffy white rice which absorbs the rich flavors of the stew beautifully. If desired, prepare some toasted farofa to provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture of the moqueca. Consider pairing with a crisp, chilled white wine or a refreshing caipirinha to complement the vibrant flavors. Relish each bite, savoring the harmonious blend of spices and textures that epitomize the spirit of Bahian cuisine. Remember to use a cooking timer throughout the process to ensure precision and timing.