Moqueca de Camarão
Shrimp stew cooked in coconut milk and palm oil, a Brazilian classic.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
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Moqueca's origins are rooted in the indigenous culinary traditions of Brazil, specifically from the coastal regions. African influences, brought by enslaved people, significantly shaped the dish, incorporating ingredients and techniques. The Portuguese also contributed with ingredients like olive oil.
Moqueca is deeply embedded in Brazilian culture, particularly in the coastal states of Bahia and Espírito Santo. It represents a culinary connection to the sea and is often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings.
Regional Variations
Different regions in Brazil have their own variations of Moqueca. The two most famous styles are Moqueca Baiana (from Bahia) and Moqueca Capixaba (from Espírito Santo). Moqueca Baiana uses dendê oil (palm oil) and coconut milk, while Moqueca Capixaba doesn't use dendê oil and relies more on annatto for color.
Social Gatherings
Moqueca is frequently served during family celebrations, holidays, and informal gatherings. It is a communal dish, often cooked in a large clay pot and shared among everyone present, fostering a sense of togetherness.
Symbol of Coastal Cuisine
Moqueca is a culinary symbol of Brazil's coastal regions, showcasing the abundance of seafood and fresh produce available. It's a dish that embodies the spirit of the coast.
Moqueca de Camarão is characterized by its rich, savory, and subtly sweet flavors, resulting from the harmonious blend of seafood, vegetables, and coconut milk.
The dish balances the sweetness of coconut milk with the savory flavors of shrimp and the aromatic vegetables. The peppers contribute a mild heat, while tomatoes add acidity and umami. Coriander brings a fresh, citrusy note, enhancing the overall complexity.
Use Fresh Ingredients
The quality of ingredients, especially the shrimp and vegetables, is crucial for a flavorful Moqueca. Opt for fresh, high-quality seafood and ripe, vibrant produce.
Simmer Gently
Avoid high heat. Simmering the Moqueca gently allows the flavors to meld and the shrimp to cook evenly without becoming tough.
Don't Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cooks quickly. Add the shrimp towards the end of the cooking process and cook until they are just pink and opaque to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Proper layering
Layer the ingredients in the pot, starting with the onions, peppers and tomatoes on the bottom. The shrimp should be in the middle with some sauce in top.
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