Caruru is a beloved Bahian dish that offers a deep, savory flavor profile unique to Brazilian cuisine. This recipe combines tender okra with a robust base of dried shrimp, fresh shrimp, and peanuts, all simmered in aromatic dende (palm) oil. The result is a thick, luxurious stew with a beautiful orange hue and complex umami notes. It pairs perfectly with white rice and farofa, making it an excellent choice for dinner parties or special family meals. While traditional ingredients like dende oil and dried shrimp might seem exotic, they are essential for achieving the authentic taste and texture that define this classic comfort food.
Caruru
Description
Caruru is a beloved Bahian dish that offers a deep, savory flavor profile unique to Brazilian cuisine. This recipe combines tender okra with a robust base of dried shrimp, fresh shrimp, and peanuts, all simmered in aromatic dende (palm) oil. The result is a thick, luxurious stew with a beautiful orange hue and complex umami notes. It pairs perfectly with white rice and farofa, making it an excellent choice for dinner parties or special family meals. While traditional ingredients like dende oil and dried shrimp might seem exotic, they are essential for achieving the authentic taste and texture that define this classic comfort food.Ingredients
Directions
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Heat olive oil in a medium heavy skillet over high heat.
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Add the topped okra pods and toss constantly until seared and golden, about 2 minutes.
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Remove okra from heat, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
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In a food processor, combine ground dried shrimp, fresh jumbo shrimp, and roasted peanuts.
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Pulse the mixture, scraping down sides as needed, until it forms a chunky paste.
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In a large heavy skillet, heat dende oil over medium heat.
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Add finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and red chile flakes.
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Cook, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes until golden.
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Add the shrimp-peanut paste, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; stir to combine.
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Pour in water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Stir in the reserved okra, finely chopped cilantro, and Tabasco sauce.
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Cook for 2 minutes more until the okra is heated through.
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Serve over white rice, garnished with cooked jumbo shrimp, red pepper julienne, cilantro sprigs, and lemon wedges.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 141.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 8.0g13%
- Saturated Fat 1.1g6%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 18.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 17.0g6%
- Dietary Fiber 7.3g30%
- Sugars 3.4g
- Protein 4.5g9%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
