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Brazilian Prawn Coconut Stew Recipe

4.7 from 86 reviews

This Brazilian Prawn Coconut Stew combines succulent prawns with vibrant spices, creamy coconut milk, and fresh herbs to create a rich and flavorful dish. Marinated in lime and garlic, the prawns are simmered with onions, peppers, and tomatoes, then gently cooked in coconut milk to produce a comforting stew perfect for serving with rice.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Prawns Marinade

  • 400 g (14 oz) prawns
  • Juice of 1 lime (half of total)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Stew

  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • 1 medium red onion, diced
  • 1 medium red pepper, diced
  • 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 green chilli, deseeded and finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chilli flakes
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 8 cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 400 ml (13.5 fl oz) coconut milk
  • Juice of 1 lime (remaining half)
  • Fresh coriander, for serving
  • Extra lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Prawns: Place the prawns in a bowl and add half of the lime juice along with the minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well. Cover and chill for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
  2. Cook Aromatics: Heat coconut oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and red pepper and fry for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
  3. Add Garlic and Chilli: Stir in the chopped garlic and green chilli, cooking for an additional minute to release their aromas.
  4. Spice It Up: Sprinkle in red chilli flakes and paprika, stir continuously for 30 seconds to blend the spices well with the vegetables.
  5. Cook the Prawns: Add the marinated prawns to the pan and simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until they are nearly cooked through.
  6. Add Tomatoes: Incorporate the diced cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently and breaking down the tomatoes to form a sauce.
  7. Finish the Stew: Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce and thicken slightly. Stir in the remaining lime juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Serve: Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh coriander and accompanied by extra lime wedges and rice if desired.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, leave some seeds in the green chilli or add more red chilli flakes.
  • This stew pairs wonderfully with plain steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • Prawns can be substituted with shrimp or another firm white seafood.
  • Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture.
  • Chilling the marinated prawns helps develop flavor but can be skipped if short on time.

Keywords: Brazilian prawn stew, coconut prawn curry, seafood stew, easy prawn recipe, coconut milk stew, Brazilian cuisine