Brazilian Moqueca de Banana with Cashew Milk

Name: Brazilian Moqueca de Banana with Cashew Milk
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Raw cashews; Water; Olive oil; Large onion; Red bell pepper; Green bell pepper; Garlic; Ground coriander; Paprika; Cayenne pepper; Bananas; Diced tomatoes; Salt and pepper; Lime juice; Fresh cilantro; Cooked white rice; Lime wedges

A Tropical Twist on a Traditional Moqueca

This vegan version of the classic Brazilian dish uses bananas and a rich cashew milk to create a creamy, tropical stew filled with bold flavors and hearty textures.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Cashew Milk

Raw cashews

1 cup, soaked overnight

Water

3 cups

For the Moqueca

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Large onion

1, thinly sliced

Red bell pepper

1 large, sliced

Green bell pepper

1 large, sliced

Garlic

4 cloves, minced

Ground coriander

1 teaspoon

Paprika

1 teaspoon

Cayenne pepper

1/2 teaspoon

Bananas

3 ripe but firm, sliced into rounds

Diced tomatoes

14 oz can

Salt and pepper

To taste

Lime juice

Juice of 1 lime

Fresh cilantro

Chopped, for garnish

For Serving

Cooked white rice

Lime wedges

Preparation

Making the Cashew Milk

Drain cashews

Drain the soaked cashews and rinse them.

Blend cashews with water

Place cashews in a blender with 3 cups of water.

Strain milk

Blend until very smooth, then strain through a cheesecloth if desired for a creamier texture.

Prepping the Vegetables

Slice ingredients

Slice the onion, peppers, and bananas.

Mince garlic

Mince the garlic.

Organize prep

Set all prepped ingredients aside.

Be careful not to overcook the bananas to prevent them from becoming mushy. Pro Tip: Add a touch of cayenne for heat but adjust to your preference.

Cooking Process

Sautéing

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and sauté onions until translucent.

Heat: Medium; Time: 10 min

Adding Vegetables

Add garlic, bell peppers, coriander, paprika, and cayenne. Cook for about 5 minutes.

Simmering

Add diced tomatoes and prepared cashew milk. Bring to a simmer, then gently stir in the banana slices. Simmer for another 10-15 minutes.

Heat: Low; Time: 20 min

Plating & Serving