Preparation Steps

Marinating the Prawns

In a medium bowl, combine the prawns with lime juice, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gently toss until the prawns are well coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This helps in infusing the prawns with aromatic spice and citrus notes, which will enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Cooking the Moqueca

In a large pan over medium heat, heat olive oil and coconut oil. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Next, add the sliced red bell pepper and yellow bell pepper. Cook until they begin to soften. Stir in the chopped tomato and cook until they start to break down and blend with the other ingredients. Pour in the can of coconut milk and add fish sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. If you are using palm oil, add it at this stage to deepen the color and add a layer of authentic flavor. While simmering, ensure you manage your cooking time effectively to avoid over-thickening.

Seared Prawns

Heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the prawns from the marinade. In a single layer, add them to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are opaque and slightly charred. This searing process locks in the flavors and provides a delightful contrast to the smooth moqueca sauce.

Combining and Serving

Once seared, gently add the prawns into the moqueca sauce, mixing carefully to ensure they are coated but not overcooked. Allow everything to marry on low heat for a further 5 minutes. Stir in half of the cilantro, reserving the rest for garnish. Serve your Moqueca Seared Prawns hot, garnished with the reserved cilantro. Accompany with a side of steamed rice or fresh crusty bread to soak up the wonderful flavors.

Enjoying the Meal

Moqueca Seared Prawns can be enjoyed as a hearty addition to a festive d