Moqueca de Camarão is a beloved Brazilian seafood stew known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. Originating from the coastal regions of Brazil, this dish highlights the country's culinary tradition of using fresh seafood and tropical ingredients. It features succulent shrimp cooked in a luscious coconut milk base, complemented by vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices. Traditionally served with rice and farofa (toasted manioc flour), Moqueca de Camarão is a celebration of Brazil's diverse and flavorful cuisine.
Moqueca de Camarão has deep roots in Brazilian cuisine, influenced by Indigenous, African, and Portuguese culinary traditions. The dish is part of a larger family of moquecas, which also includes variations made with fish and other seafood. The use of coconut milk and palm oil reflects African influences, while the preparation in a clay pot is a nod to Indigenous cooking methods. Over time, Moqueca de Camarão has gained popularity beyond Brazil, appearing on menus in Brazilian restaurants worldwide and delighting food enthusiasts with its unique combination of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large clay pot or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté the onions, red and green bell peppers, and garlic for about 5 minutes, until softened.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low, add the shrimp, and cover the pot.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the shrimp are fully cooked.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice and farofa.
Notes:
- For extra heat, include a diced chili pepper or a splash of hot sauce.
- Feel free to substitute shrimp with other seafood like fish or squid if desired.
Nutrition Value:
1. 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Calories: 400
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 90 g
- Fat: 3 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Cholesterol: 350 mg
- Vitamins: High in vitamin B12 and vitamin D
- Minerals: Rich in selenium and zinc
- Nutritional Benefit: Shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein and provide essential nutrients that support muscle health and immune function. They also offer omega-3 fatty acids for heart health.
2. 1 onion, chopped
- Calories: 45
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Good source of vitamin C and B6
- Minerals: Contains potassium and manganese
- Nutritional Benefit: Onions provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. They support heart health and immune function.
3. 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- Calories: 50
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin B6
- Minerals: Contains potassium and folate
- Nutritional Benefit: Red bell peppers are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, promoting immune health and skin health.
4. 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- Calories: 30
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Good source of vitamin C and vitamin A
- Minerals: Contains potassium and magnesium
- Nutritional Benefit: Green bell peppers are low in calories and high in vitamins and antioxidants, supporting immune function and overall health.
5. 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Calories: 20
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin C and vitamin B6
- Minerals: Provides manganese and calcium
- Nutritional Benefit: Garlic has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports heart health and may help reduce blood pressure.
6. 2 tomatoes, chopped
- Calories: 40
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: High in vitamin C and vitamin A
- Minerals: Contains potassium and folate
- Nutritional Benefit: Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.
7. 1 can coconut milk
- Calories: 445
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 48 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Provides vitamin C and vitamin E
- Minerals: Rich in iron, magnesium, and potassium
- Nutritional Benefit: Coconut milk is high in healthy fats and provides a good source of energy. It supports heart health and provides essential minerals.
8. 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Calories: 240
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 27 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin E
- Minerals: Provides small amounts of calcium and iron
- Nutritional Benefit: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.
9. Salt and pepper to taste
- Salt: Typically adds around 2300 mg sodium per teaspoon
- Pepper: Minimal calories and nutrients
- Nutritional Benefit: Salt adds flavor but should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake. Pepper adds flavor and may have antioxidant properties.
10. Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Calories: 1
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Contains vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K
- Minerals: Provides calcium and potassium
- Nutritional Benefit: Cilantro adds a fresh flavor and provides essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
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