Savory Brazilian Vatapá with Cashew Nuts and Coconut Milk
A Creamy & Nutty Brazilian Delight
Indulge in the rich flavors of Northeastern Brazil with this traditional dish, blending coconut milk, cashew nuts, and aromatic spices for a delightful main course.
- 1 h 30 min
- 6
- Intermediate
Ingredients
Vatapá Base
Spice Blend
Nuts
Seafood
Preparation
Marinating the Shrimp
Marinate shrimp
In a bowl, combine shrimp, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
Set aside
Mix well and set aside to marinate for 15 minutes.
Preparing the Base
Soak bread
Soak the bread cubes in coconut milk and fish stock. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
Ensure the bread is thoroughly soaked for an authentic creamy texture.
Heat oils and sauté aromatics
In a large pot, heat dendê oil and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, and bell pepper. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Be cautious with dendê oil as it has a strong flavor; too much can overpower the dish.
Cooking Process
Blend bread mixture
Blend the soaked bread mixture until smooth with a hand blender or in a food processor.
Cook the base
Add the ground nuts and blended bread mixture to the pot, stirring continuously.
Incorporate shrimp
Fold in the marinated shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and are fully cooked.
Timing and heat guide
Sauté aromatics on medium heat for 10 minutes. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.
Plating & Serving
Savory Brazilian Vatapá with Cashew Nuts and Coconut Milk
Savory Brazilian Vatapá with Cashew Nuts and Coconut Milk
Serve and Garnish
Serve the vatapá hot in a shallow bowl, garnished with fresh herbs and a splash of dendê oil for an authentic Brazilian touch.