Caruru is an iconic dish from the vibrant culinary landscape of Brazil. Infused with rich flavors and history, this okra and shrimp stew perfectly embodies the melting pot of indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences. Dive into this recipe to explore the lush taste of Brazil in your own kitchen.
Equipment Required for the recipe
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon
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Estimated time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
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Ingredients
- 500 grams of okra, sliced
- 300 grams of shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons of dende oil (palm oil)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup of unsweetened grated coconut
- 1/2 cup of roasted peanuts
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the dende oil over medium heat.
- Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until onions become translucent.
- Incorporate the tomatoes, cooking until they soften.
- Stir in the sliced okra, ensuring they are well coated with the sautéed mixture.
- Pour in enough water to cover the okra. Season with salt and pepper, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, letting the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes.
- In the meantime, grind the peanuts and grated coconut in a blender or food processor until a coarse powder is formed.
- Add this peanut-coconut mixture to the pot, stirring well.
- Introduce the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Lastly, fold in the chopped cilantro, letting the stew simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Serve hot.
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Important notes about the recipe
- Dende oil, or palm oil, offers a distinct flavor to the dish. If unavailable, it can be substituted with vegetable oil, but the authentic flavor may be slightly altered.
- Fresh okra is preferred for this dish, but frozen can also be used if needed.
- Adjust the consistency by adding water or broth as per your preference.
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Conclusion
Brazilian Caruru is not just a dish, but an experience. Its rich history and multifaceted flavors transport you straight to the heart of Brazilian homes. The melding of okra, shrimp, peanuts, and coconut creates a symphony of textures and tastes. Serve it with rice or enjoy it as a hearty soup, but no matter how you have it, each bite promises a burst of Brazil. Whether you’re reminiscing about a trip to Brazil or discovering its cuisine for the first time, this Caruru recipe will undoubtedly become a cherished favorite.
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Nutritional Information per serving
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Sugar: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Serving Size: 1 cup
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