We’ve always been captivated by the vibrant flavors of Brazilian cuisine, and Camarao Na Moranga stands out as a cozy favorite. This dish features succulent shrimp simmered in a creamy sauce then baked inside a pumpkin for a showstopping presentation that wows at gatherings.
Originating from Brazil’s coastal regions it’s a hearty recipe that blends seafood with seasonal veggies in a way that feels both exotic and comforting. We’re thrilled to guide you through making this delightful meal that’s perfect for impressing friends or enjoying a special night in.
Ingredients
To bring our Camarao Na Moranga to life—a vibrant Brazilian dish of shrimp nestled in a creamy sauce and baked in a pumpkin—we carefully select these essential ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order they are typically prepared, with prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Pumpkin: 1 large (about 4-5 pounds), washed and hollowed out to serve as the baking vessel, ensuring it’s stable for even cooking.
- Shrimp: 1 pound of fresh medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined to enhance flavor absorption in the sauce.
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped to form the base of the aromatic sauté.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced for a bold, pungent kick that infuses the dish.
- Tomatoes: 2 large, diced to add juicy acidity and balance the creaminess.
- Coconut milk: 1 can (14 ounces) for a rich, creamy texture that highlights coastal Brazilian flavors.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup to create a luxurious sauce that binds everything together.
- Bell peppers: 2 (one red and one green), sliced to introduce color, crunch, and subtle sweetness.
- Fresh cilantro: ½ cup, chopped, for a fresh, herbaceous finish.
- Lime: 2, juiced and zested, to brighten the dish with tangy notes.
- Paprika: 1 tablespoon for a smoky, mildly spicy depth that nods to Brazilian spices.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, for seasoning throughout the preparation process.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing and preventing sticking in the pan.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Camarao Na Moranga with precision and ease, we recommend gathering the following essential tools. These items ensure efficient handling of ingredients like the pumpkin and shrimp, maintaining the dish’s authentic Brazilian flair.
- Oven: A standard convection or conventional oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) is crucial for baking the stuffed pumpkin evenly, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
- Large Knife: Use a sharp chef’s knife to carefully carve and hollow out the pumpkin, preventing any mishaps while creating the ideal vessel for the shrimp mixture.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, heat-resistant wooden or plastic cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and seafood, reducing prep time and mess.
- Mixing Bowls: At least two medium-sized stainless steel mixing bowls for combining ingredients like onions, garlic, and coconut milk, ensuring thorough blending without spills.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: A heat-resistant silicone spatula for stirring the creamy sauce, helping to incorporate seasonings like paprika and cilantro smoothly over the stove.
- Baking Tray or Dish: A large, oven-safe baking dish to support the pumpkin during baking, catching any drips and promoting even heat distribution for that signature golden finish.
By having these tools ready, we streamline the process from prep to presentation, making our Camarao Na Moranga recipe both enjoyable and professional.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to create our flavorful Camarao Na Moranga. We will guide you precisely to achieve a perfectly baked dish bursting with Brazilian coastal vibes.
Prepare the Pumpkin
First, preheat our oven to 350°F to ensure even baking. Select a large pumpkin and carefully cut off the top using a sharp knife to create a lid then scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a sturdy spoon leaving a clean hollow cavity. Season the inside generously with salt and paprika for a hint of spice that enhances the natural sweetness and creates an aromatic base for our filling.
Make the Shrimp Filling
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves stirring for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Next, incorporate 1 diced bell pepper and 2 chopped tomatoes cooking for another 5 minutes until softened then stir in 1 pound of fresh shrimp, 1 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and the juice of 1 lime. Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency that promises a rich savory taste with tropical undertones we love in this Brazilian classic.
Assemble the Dish
Once our shrimp filling is ready, place the hollowed pumpkin in a large baking dish for stability. Spoon the warm filling into the pumpkin cavity packing it in evenly to capture all the vibrant flavors. Replace the pumpkin lid on top to seal in the steam and aromas turning our setup into a visually stunning centerpiece ready for the oven.
Bake and Serve
Transfer the assembled pumpkin to the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes until the pumpkin flesh is tender when pierced with a fork and the filling bubbles with a golden crust. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld then carefully slice and serve directly from the pumpkin for a dramatic presentation that highlights the dish’s creamy texture and fresh seafood essence.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify preparing Camarao Na Moranga, we recommend making certain components ahead of time, allowing you to focus on assembly and baking when ready. This approach maintains the dish’s vibrant flavors and creamy texture while saving time for special occasions.
Preparing the Pumpkin in Advance
We can prepare the pumpkin up to 24 hours ahead to ensure it’s ready for filling. Follow these steps:
- Preheat the oven as outlined in our main instructions, but stop after hollowing out the pumpkin.
- Cut off the top of a large pumpkin, scoop out the seeds and strings, and season the inside with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika.
- Wrap the prepared pumpkin tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness.
Making the Shrimp Filling Ahead
The shrimp filling can be made up to 2 days in advance, as it reheats beautifully while retaining its rich, aromatic essence. Here’s how we do it:
- Sauté onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes as described in the main recipe until softened.
- Add shrimp, coconut milk, heavy cream, lime juice, and seasonings, cooking until the shrimp are just opaque.
- Let the mixture cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
For optimal results, we advise the following storage times and methods, summarized in the table below for quick reference:
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepared Pumpkin | Up to 24 hours | Refrigerated in airtight wrap | No reheating needed; use directly. |
| Shrimp Filling | Up to 2 days | Refrigerated in airtight container | Gently reheat on the stove over low heat until warm, stirring to avoid overcooking the shrimp. |
Important note: Always check for freshness before use—look for any off odors or textures in the filling. When assembling, pack the reheated filling into the pumpkin and bake as per our main instructions to achieve that bubbling, tender finish. This method ensures Camarao Na Moranga remains a showstopping, flavorful dish with minimal last-minute effort.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored this Camarao Na Moranga recipe with us
It brings Brazilian warmth to your kitchen and creates unforgettable moments
Let’s embrace these flavors to elevate your meals and connect over shared tastes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Camarao Na Moranga?
Camarao Na Moranga is a traditional Brazilian dish where shrimp is cooked in a creamy sauce and baked inside a pumpkin for a stunning presentation. Originating from Brazil’s coastal areas, it combines fresh seafood with seasonal vegetables, offering a mix of exotic flavors and comforting warmth. It’s perfect for special occasions or entertaining guests.
What ingredients are needed for Camarao Na Moranga?
You’ll need a large pumpkin as the base, fresh shrimp, onions, garlic, tomatoes, bell peppers, coconut milk, heavy cream, cilantro, lime, paprika, and seasonings. These ingredients create a rich, vibrant sauce. Focus on fresh, high-quality items for the best taste, and organize them by prep order to streamline cooking.
What equipment is required to make this dish?
Essential tools include a preheated oven (set to 350°F), a sharp knife and cutting board for the pumpkin, mixing bowls, a heat-resistant spatula for stirring, and a large baking dish. These items help handle ingredients efficiently while keeping the authentic Brazilian style intact, making preparation smooth and professional.
How do I prepare Camarao Na Moranga?
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F and preparing the pumpkin by cutting off the top, removing seeds, and seasoning inside. Sauté onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes, then add shrimp, coconut milk, cream, and lime. Fill the pumpkin, cover with the lid, and bake for 45-60 minutes until tender. Let it rest before serving.
Can I make Camarao Na Moranga ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the pumpkin up to 24 hours in advance by seasoning and storing it in the fridge. Make the shrimp filling up to 2 days ahead, then store in an airtight container. When ready, assemble and bake. Always check for freshness before reheating to maintain flavor and safety for a stress-free meal.
How long does it take to bake Camarao Na Moranga?
Bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and the filling is bubbling. Check halfway through to ensure even cooking. This time allows flavors to meld perfectly, resulting in a creamy, delicious dish ready for serving.
What are some tips for serving Camarao Na Moranga?
Serve straight from the pumpkin for a dramatic tableside reveal, paired with rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for extra zest. It’s ideal for 4-6 people and pairs well with a crisp white wine, highlighting the creamy shrimp and vegetable flavors.