Description
Brazilian Vatapá is a rich and creamy seafood dish featuring shrimp cooked in a fragrant blend of coconut milk, palm oil, and spices. This flavorful stew is thickened with breadcrumbs and infused with garlic, ginger, and bell peppers, making it a comforting and aromatic meal perfect to serve with rice or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
Liquids and Sauces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce)
- 1/2 cup palm oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional for serving)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the shrimp: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add grated ginger and cook for another minute to release its flavor.
- Add liquids and spices: Pour in the coconut milk and add fish sauce, cayenne pepper (if using), turmeric, cumin, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Incorporate breadcrumbs: Slowly add breadcrumbs to the sauce while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. The mixture will start to thicken as the breadcrumbs soak up the coconut milk.
- Simmer to thicken: Reduce the heat and let the stew simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it reaches a creamy, thick consistency.
- Combine shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back into the pot and stir to combine. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Season and serve: Taste the vatapá and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional lime juice. Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro, accompanied by rice or warm crusty bread.
- Enjoy your meal: This dish makes a hearty main course or side dish with rich Brazilian flavors and creamy texture.
Notes
- Using palm oil provides a traditional flavor, but vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
- Cayenne pepper is optional and can be adjusted according to your heat preference.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts.
- Fish sauce adds depth but soy sauce is a good vegetarian alternative.
- Serve vatapá immediately for best texture; reheating may thicken it more, so add a splash of water or coconut milk if needed.
