- Can I use frozen prawns?
- Yes, but defrost slowly. Don't throw away the juice, add it to the sauce!
- When are prawns done?
- When they curl into a 'C' shape and are pink. If 'O' shaped, they are overcooked.
Moqueca de Camarão
Moqueca de Camarão is the essence of the Brazilian seaside on a plate. Whilst layering is the point for the vegetarian version, here timing is key: prawn proteins are extremely heat-sensitive. If overcooked, they become rubbery; if just right, they are crisp and juicy. Coconut milk, the acidity of tomatoes and the sweetness of prawns create the perfect balance.
Ingredients
500
g
Prawns (cleaned)
400
ml
Coconut milk
2
cloves
Garlic (crushed)
1
whole
Onion (chopped)
1
whole
Green bell pepper (diced)
2
whole
Tomatoes (diced)
1
bunch
Fresh coriander
3
tbsp
Olive oil
1
whole
Lime juice
1
tsp
Salt
0.5
tsp
Black pepper
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Large frying pan
- Citrus juicer
Allergen Information
Crustaceans
Instructions
1
✓
Marinate the prawns with half the lime juice, salt and pepper for 10 minutes. No longer, because acid 'cooks' the meat.
Tip: Short marinating refreshes flavours without damaging texture.
2
✓
Heat the oil and sauté the onion and pepper until soft. Add the garlic and tomatoes.
Tip: Let the tomato cook down to thicken the sauce.
3
✓
Pour in the coconut milk, bring to the boil, then lower the heat and cook for 5 minutes.
Tip: The sauce should be silky and uniform.
4
✓
Add the prawns. Cook for just 3-5 minutes until they turn pink.
Tip: Don't leave it! Prawns cook in moments.
5
✓
Stir in the remaining lime juice and fresh coriander. Serve with white rice.
Tip: Lime acidity helps 'lift' the coconut milk's richness.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 500 g Prawns (cleaned)
- 400 ml Coconut milk
- 2 cloves Garlic (crushed)
- 1 whole Onion (chopped)
- 1 whole Green bell pepper (diced)
- 2 whole Tomatoes (diced)
- 1 bunch Fresh coriander
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 whole Lime juice
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper