Brazilian Fish Moqueca
Moqueca is a flavorful and fragrant traditional Brazilian dish. It features white fish fillets gently simmered in rich coconut milk, fresh vegetables, and signature red palm oil. This exotic dish can be complemented with plantain slices for a more authentic sweet and savory version.
🛒 Ingredients
4 servings
- 1.75 lbs white fish fillets
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.75 oz fresh cilantro
- 1.5 cups onion, chopped
- 1.25 cups red bell pepper, sliced
- 1.25 cups green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp red palm oil
- 1.75 cups coconut milk
- 1 chili pepper
- 1.5 cups plantain, sliced
Watch the original video
Watch on TikTokDirections
- 1
Marinate the fish with fresh lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a little fresh cilantro. Let rest for at least 15 minutes.
- 2
In a Dutch oven or large pot, sauté the sliced onion and minced garlic over medium heat in the red palm oil for 3-4 minutes.
- 3
Add the red and green bell pepper strips, then the diced tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes.
- 4
Gently arrange the marinated fish fillets on the bed of vegetables and pour in the coconut milk.
- 5
Add the chili pepper if desired. Cover partially and let simmer over low heat for 12-15 minutes until the fish is tender.
- 6
If using plantains, add the slices 5 minutes before the end of cooking.
- 7
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
- 8
Serve hot with white rice and accompany with toasted bread if desired.
💡 Chef's Tip
The key is not to overcook the fish so it remains tender. Use authentic red palm oil for the best flavor, though olive oil works as a substitute. Plantains add a pleasant sweetness but are optional. Prep all vegetables in advance for a smooth cooking process.
