Recipe · Main course
Moqueca baiana – fish in coconut milk
Moqueca baiana is Brazil's best-known fish stew: white fish, tomatoes, peppers and onions, gently cooked in coconut milk. The dish comes together in a wide pot and above all needs the patience not to stir.
Method
- Pat the fish dry, mix with lime juice, garlic and salt and leave to marinate in a cool place for about 20 minutes.
- Cut the onion into rings, the peppers into strips and the tomatoes into slices. Roughly chop the coriander.
- Layer in a wide pot: onions, tomatoes and peppers, the fish on top, coriander on top of that.
- Pour in the dendê oil (or the alternative) and coconut milk, cover and bring to the boil, then reduce to low heat.
- Cook gently for 15–20 minutes without stirring (otherwise the fish falls apart). Swirl the pot lightly now and then.
- Season with salt, chilli and a squeeze of lime. Serve with rice and, if you like, farofa.
- Dendê oil: It gives the dish its colour and typical aroma. Since palm oil is environmentally controversial, look for certified oil (e.g. RSPO) or use the olive oil and paprika version.
- Fish: Firm varieties hold together better. Very delicate fillets fall apart quickly – then cook them a little less.
- Moqueca capixaba (Espírito Santo) is made without coconut milk and dendê, using olive oil and annatto paste instead – a lighter sister dish.
- Clay pot: Traditionally moqueca is served in the panela de barro. Prepare new pots before first use according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Handy extras
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Moqueca clay pot (panela de barro)
For braising and serving. Check whether it suits your type of hob.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use prawns instead of fish?
Yes. Prawns need only about 5–8 minutes and are added toward the end, otherwise they turn tough.
Why not stir?
The fish pieces are tender and fall apart when stirred. Layering the ingredients and swirling the pot will still distribute the sauce evenly.
What goes well as a side?
Classic: white rice, farofa and a hot pepper sauce. A cool drink or a caipirinha goes well with it.
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