Easy Brazilian Fish Stew

Name: Easy Brazilian Fish Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

A delightful and flavorful dish that brings the taste of Brazil to your kitchen with minimal effort.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-06T15:10:21.284Z

This Easy Brazilian Fish Stew is a vibrant and hearty dish that captures the essence of coastal Brazilian cuisine. With fresh fish, tomatoes, and a hint of coconut milk, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Infused with aromatic spices and fresh ingredients
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A comforting dish that warms the soul

      

A Taste of Brazil

Brazilian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients, with seafood playing a significant role, especially in coastal regions. This Easy Brazilian Fish Stew captures the essence of Brazil with its rich combination of coconut milk and fresh vegetables. The use of spices like paprika and cumin adds depth and warmth, making it a perfect dish to enjoy year-round.

Coconut milk is a staple in many Brazilian recipes, giving dishes a creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the savory flavors of the fish and vegetables. This stew not only celebrates the ingredients but also embodies the spirit of Brazilian home cooking—a cuisine that prioritizes fresh, wholesome components.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting meal after a long day, this Easy Brazilian Fish Stew is an excellent choice. Its quick preparation time makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while the comforting aroma and vibrant presentation make it suitable for special occasions as well. You can serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

The stew's versatility is another reason to love it. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of fish. This adaptability means you can create a unique dish every time you make it, ensuring that it never gets old.

Nutritional Benefits

Fish is a fantastic source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. Incorporating fish into your diet can promote heart health, improve brain function, and support overall well-being. Paired with the nutritious vegetables and coconut milk in this stew, you have a wholesome meal that nourishes both the body and soul.

Additionally, the use of fresh cilantro not only enhances the flavor but also adds a dose of antioxidants and vitamins. This dish is not only delicious but also supports a healthy lifestyle, making it a smart choice for those looking to eat well without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

Gather all the fresh ingredients for this delicious stew:

Ingredients

1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to choose the freshest fish available for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Brazilian Fish Stew:

Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and cut the fish into bite-sized pieces.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Stir in the bell pepper and cook for another 5 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Pour in the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Cook the Fish

Add the fish pieces to the pot, gently stirring to coat them in the sauce. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy warm.

This stew pairs wonderfully with rice or crusty bread!

Tips for the Best Stew

For the best results, use fresh fish that is firm and smells clean. Cod and tilapia are excellent choices, but you can experiment with other fish varieties like snapper or halibut. The key is to ensure that the fish is sustainably sourced for both quality and environmental reasons.

When preparing the vegetables, feel free to add other favorites like zucchini, spinach, or even corn. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also boosts the nutritional value of the stew, making it a colorful and hearty meal.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the fish from becoming tough. Adding a splash of coconut milk or broth can help restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in individual portions. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw the fish completely before adding it to the stew.

→ What type of fish works best?

Mild white fish like cod, tilapia, or snapper are great choices.

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.