Vatapá Recipe: Shrimp and Peanut Stew
Ingredients
- 500g (1 lb) fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 150g (1 cup) raw peanuts
- 100g (1 cup) cashew nuts
- 2 slices of white bread, crusts removed, soaked in water
- 400ml (1 3/4 cup) coconut milk
- 1 liter (4 cups) fish stock
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 5g (1 tsp) ground turmeric
- 5g (1 tsp) red pepper flakes
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
- 30ml (2 tbsp) palm oil or vegetable oil
Introduction
Welcome to an immersive journey into the heart of Brazilian cuisine with Vatapá, a delicate and richly flavored Shrimp and Peanut Stew. This traditional dish hails from Bahia, a vibrant area in Brazil. Vatapá brings together seafood, nuts, and spices to create an explosion of taste that pays homage to the culinary cross-cultural exchanges in the region. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook seeking an adventurous leap into Brazilian gastronomy, this recipe ensures that your foray into Vatapá is as enjoyable as the dish itself.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Blender or Food Processor
- Large Pot
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Mixing Bowls
- Wooden Spoon
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Peanut and Cashew Mixture
Begin by blending the raw peanuts and cashew nuts until they form a fine paste. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little water to help it blend smoothly. Set the nut paste aside.
Step 2: Creating the Flavor Base
In a large pot, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Subsequently, incorporate the pre-soaked bread, tomatoes, turmeric, and red pepper flakes, stirring to create a cohesive base.
Step 3: Incorporating the Nut Paste and Coconut Milk
Introduce the peanut and cashew paste to the pot. Mix well before pouring in the coconut milk. Stir continuously to ensure the mixture does not stick or clump, simmering gently.
Step 4: Adding the Shrimp and Seasoning
Pour the fish stock into the pot, stirring to integrate. Once the stew begins to simmer, add the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through — approximately 5-7 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.
Step 5: Final Touch and Serving
Before removing the stew from heat, stir in the chopped cilantro, reserving some for garnish. Allow the flavors to meld over low heat for a final 5 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro and accompanied by steamed rice or farofa.
Conclusion
You’ve now mastered the art of creating Vatapá, a deeply satisfying dish echoing Brazil’s rich cultural tapestry. As each spoonful of Vatapá mesmerizes with its creamy texture and bold flavors, this recipe reminds us of how food unites traditions, shared experiences, and communal joy. Let Vatapá inspire your culinary pursuits as you continue to experiment and reimagine global cuisines within your own kitchen.
