Description
Experience the rich and vibrant flavors of Brazil with this Brazilian Dungeness Crab Stew. This incredible recipe combines tender Dungeness crab meat with a luscious blend of coconut milk, diced tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Enhanced with fresh bell peppers, garlic, and a touch of lime, this stew offers a hearty and comforting dish perfect for seafood lovers. Serve it over steamed white rice or with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Stew Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup seafood or chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 pound cooked Dungeness crab meat, picked over for shells
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the base: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 4 minutes, creating a flavorful foundation for the stew.
- Add bell peppers: Stir in the diced red and yellow bell peppers and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and release their sweetness.
- Incorporate aromatics and spices: Add the minced garlic, tomato paste, paprika, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper if using. Cook for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant, allowing their flavors to bloom.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, coconut milk, and seafood or chicken broth. Stir everything to combine well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce and thicken: Lower the heat to maintain a low simmer and cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the stew to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Finish with crab and citrus: Stir in the lime juice and gently add the cooked Dungeness crab meat. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes just to heat the crab through without breaking it up.
- Season and garnish: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a bright, herbal finish. Serve hot.
Notes
- Serve this stew over steamed white rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- You can substitute Dungeness crab with lump crab meat or shrimp for a different seafood twist.
- For an extra layer of authentic flavor, add a splash of palm oil if you have access to it.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Brazilian
