Brazilian Salmon Stew

“Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazilian Salmon Stew, a delicious and aromatic dish featuring marinated salmon, fresh vegetables, and creamy coconut milk. This one-pot meal combines the bold spices of cumin and paprika with the tang of lime juice for a tropical-inspired stew. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy fish stew is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare yet rich in flavor. Serve with rice or bread for a complete, nutritious meal full of protein and healthy fats.”

This Brazilian Salmon Stew is a flavorful and aromatic dish featuring tender salmon marinated in a zesty lime and spice mixture, simmered with vegetables and creamy coconut milk. It’s a hearty, tropical-inspired stew that brings a rich combination of textures and flavors perfect for a comforting meal.

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Ingredients

Marinade

• 1/2 head garlic, peeled, crushed, and minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 3/4 tsp coarse salt
• 1 tbsp sweet paprika
• 2 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Fish Stew

• 1 1/2 to 2 lbs salmon, cut into 2-inch pieces
• Extra virgin olive oil
• 2 medium onions, sliced
• 1 large green bell pepper, seeded, de-stemmed, and sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 (14 oz) can regular (not light) coconut milk
• 1 large bunch fresh cilantro, chopped (1-2 cups)

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon:
   In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the marinade. Place the salmon pieces in a shallow dish, pour the marinade over, and toss to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Prepare the Stew Base:
   Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Layer the bottom with sliced onions, followed by a layer of green bell pepper, and then a layer of sliced tomatoes.
3. Assemble the Layers:
   Place the marinated salmon pieces on top of the vegetable layers. Add another layer of onions, bell pepper, and tomatoes on top of the fish. Generously salt and pepper the top layer of tomatoes and sprinkle with half of the chopped cilantro.
4. Add Coconut Milk:
   Pour the coconut milk over the stew and drizzle with a couple of tablespoons of olive oil.
5. Simmer the Stew:
   Bring the stew to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the salmon is cooked through.
6. Finish the Stew:
   Just a couple of minutes before removing the stew from the heat, stir in the remaining chopped cilantro. Give the stew one final mix, then remove from the heat.
7. Serve:
   Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro if desired. Enjoy your Brazilian-inspired salmon stew with rice, bread, or on its own for a light yet satisfying meal!

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Tips

• Marinate overnight for deeper flavor: While 2 hours of marination is sufficient, marinating overnight will give the salmon time to fully absorb the marinade’s flavors.
• Use fresh fish for the best texture: Opt for fresh, skinless salmon for a tender and juicy result.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: You can tweak the amount of salt, pepper, or lime juice in the marinade to suit your preferences.
• Add heat: If you prefer a spicier stew, consider adding a chopped chili or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use other fish: If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can replace it with other firm fish like tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi.
• Vegetarian version: Skip the fish entirely and use tofu or extra vegetables like zucchini and sweet potatoes.
• Add more veggies: Consider adding carrots, green beans, or spinach for a more hearty stew.
• Dairy-free option: This recipe is naturally dairy-free because of the coconut milk, so you can enjoy it as is.

FAQs

Can I use light coconut milk?
While you can use light coconut milk, it may not provide the same rich and creamy texture as regular coconut milk. Regular coconut milk will give the stew a fuller flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stew ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors may deepen overnight, making it even more flavorful.

How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just be sure to reheat gently to avoid overcooking the fish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with rice: Pair the stew with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to absorb the rich broth.
• Bread or tortillas: For a comforting meal, serve with crusty bread or warm tortillas to soak up the coconut sauce.
• Pair with a light salad: A fresh green salad with citrus dressing complements the rich and creamy stew perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed and comforting: The combination of spices, coconut milk, and fresh cilantro creates a deliciously complex and aromatic dish.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this Brazilian Salmon Stew is an approachable way to enjoy a flavorful fish dish.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this stew offers a satisfying and comforting meal that’s sure to impress.
• Healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vegetables, this stew is both nourishing and filling, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.