Vatapá is a traditional dish from Brazilian cuisine, particularly Bahian cuisine, known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. This dish is often served as a side to acarajé or paired with shrimp, fish, or even veal. The combination of breadcrumbs, peanuts, coconut milk, dendê oil, and spices creates a uniquely special flavor that is both comforting and versatile. This recipe brings the authentic taste of Brazil to your table.
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Ingredients
fresh shrimp, peeled and cooked100g
dried shrimp70g
white fish250g
medium onion, sliced1
large tomato1
ground cilantro2tbsp
green chili pepper1
crushed red pepper1tsp
lemon juice20mL
dendê oil45mL
roasted cashew nuts, chopped50g
shelled peanuts50g
freshly grated ginger1tsp
breadcrumbs30g
coconut milk80mL
water100mL
salt
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
336.4kcal (16.82%)
Protein
27.1g (54.14%)
Carbs
11.6g (4.2%)
Sugars
1.6g (3.14%)
Healthy Fat
11.2g
Unhealthy Fat
9.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Vatapá
- Step 1
Place the dried shrimp in a bowl and soak to remove excess salt.
- Step 2
Toast the peanuts and peel them.
- Step 3
Season the white fish, cut into pieces, with salt and pepper. Marinate with the lemon juice and set aside.
- Step 4
In a pot, heat half of the dendê oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the chopped tomato, ground cilantro, and chopped green chili pepper. Cook for two minutes.
- Step 5
Add the fish to the mixture and cook for five more minutes. Then pour in the lemon juice from the marinade and the remaining dendê oil.
- Step 6
Cover the pot and let it cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes.
- Step 7
After cooking, remove the fish from the pot and chop it into small pieces. Add the hydrated dried shrimp, chopped cashew nuts, toasted peanuts, and grated ginger to the sauce in the pot.
- Step 8
Transfer the sauce to a blender and blend lightly, being careful not to over-process. Return the sauce to the pot and cook over low heat.
- Step 9
Add the water, coconut milk, chopped fish, and breadcrumbs. Cook for one minute, then remove from heat.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
336.4kcal (16.82%)
Protein
27.1g (54.14%)
Carbs
11.6g (4.2%)
Sugars
1.6g (3.14%)
Healthy Fat
11.2g
Unhealthy Fat
9.6g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Be careful not to over-blend the sauce to maintain some texture.
Use fresh, high-quality shrimp and fish for the best flavor.
Adjust the level of chili pepper and crushed red pepper to suit your spice preference.
Dendê oil is essential for authentic flavor, but if unavailable, you can substitute with palm oil.
Serve Vatapá warm for the best taste and texture.
FAQS
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw and drain them properly before cooking.
What can I use as a substitute for dendê oil?
If dendê oil is unavailable, you can substitute it with palm oil, but the flavor may not be as authentic.
Can I make Vatapá vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the shrimp and fish and use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian version.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
What is the best way to serve Vatapá?
Vatapá is traditionally served as a side dish with acarajé, but it also pairs well with rice, fish, or veal.
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