Camarão na Moranga is a rich and creamy Brazilian dish where succulent shrimp are cooked in a flavorful coconut milk sauce and served inside a roasted pumpkin. This visually stunning dish is perfect for special occasions, combining sweet pumpkin flesh with savory, spiced shrimp for a delightful contrast.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin:
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1 medium pumpkin (about 2–3 lbs / 1–1.5 kg)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt to taste
For the Shrimp Filling:
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1 lb (500g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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1 onion, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 tomato, diced
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1 cup (240ml) coconut milk
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½ cup (120ml) of heavy cream (optional, for added creaminess)
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Execution
1. Prepare the Pumpkin:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Slice off the top of the pumpkin like a lid, then remove the seeds and stringy fibers from the inside.
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Brush the inside with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and place on a baking sheet.
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Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the pumpkin is soft but still holds its form.
2. Cook the Shrimp Filling:
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In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
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Add the bell pepper and tomato, sautéing for 3–4 minutes.
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Add the tomato paste first, then thoroughly mix in the paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper until fully incorporated.
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Add the shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes, or until they turn pink.
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Pour in coconut milk (and heavy cream if using), simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Assemble:
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Fill the roasted pumpkin with the shrimp mixture.
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Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot with rice or bread.
Additional Tips
✔ Pumpkin Selection: Choose a firm, sweet pumpkin like “moranga” or kabocha.
✔ Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to increase or decrease the heat.
✔ Make Ahead: Roast pumpkin ahead, reheat before filling.
✔ Extra Flavor: Add a splash of lime juice or palm oil (dendê) for authenticity.
Q&A About Camarão na Moranga
What is Camarão na Moranga?
A traditional Brazilian dish where a roasted pumpkin (moranga) is filled with a creamy shrimp (camarão) stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, peppers, and spices. It’s often served at festive gatherings.
Can I use other pumpkins if I can’t find moranga?
Yes! Substitute with kabocha, butternut squash, or sugar pumpkin. Avoid overly watery varieties like Halloween pumpkins.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Absolutely! Substitute shrimp with hearty mushrooms, tofu, or jackfruit, and use vegetable broth instead.
How do I prevent the pumpkin from collapsing?
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Roast just until tender but firm (test with a fork).
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Avoid overfilling; bake the pumpkin separately first.
Can I make it ahead of time?
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Yes! Prep components separately:
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Roast pumpkin 1 day ahead; reheat before filling.
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Shrimp stew can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours (add cream when reheating).
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What’s the best way to serve it?
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Scoop out pumpkin flesh with the shrimp stew.
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Pair with white rice, crusty bread, or farofa (toasted cassava flour).
Why is my stew too watery?
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Simmer longer to reduce the sauce.
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Add a slurry of 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water if needed.
Can I freeze leftovers?
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Not recommended (pumpkin turns mushy). Store the shrimp stew alone for up to 1 month; reheat and serve in fresh roasted pumpkin.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s customizable! Traditional recipes use cayenne or dendê oil for heat, but omit or reduce if preferred.
What’s the cultural significance?
Popular in Brazil’s coastal regions, especially during holidays and family gatherings. This dish blends Indigenous (pumpkin), African (coconut), and Portuguese (shrimp) culinary influences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. A Showstopper Dish 🌟
This stunning, edible centerpiece—a golden roasted pumpkin filled with creamy shrimp stew—will wow guests at dinner parties or holiday meals. A feast for the senses—vibrant hues and aromatic spices promise as much visual delight as bold flavor.
2. Rich, Comforting Flavors 🥥🍤
Imagine plump, juicy shrimp swimming in a silky coconut milk broth, kissed by the sweet, caramelized richness of roasted pumpkin. This dish is pure magic—a luscious dance of savory and sweet, with layers of aromatic warmth and just a hint of spice to keep things exciting.
Every spoonful is a comforting yet elegant experience—creamy, dreamy, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re craving a cozy night in or want to impress at your next dinner party, this flavor-packed masterpiece delivers!
3. Surprisingly Easy to Make ⏳
Despite its impressive look, the recipe is straightforward: roast the pumpkin, simmer the shrimp stew, and assemble. No fancy techniques required!
4. Versatile & Customizable 🔄
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Dietary needs? Swap shrimp for mushrooms or tofu.
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Spice level? Adjust cayenne or add chili flakes.
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Extra decadence? Stir in cheese or a splash of cream.
5. A Taste of Brazilian Culture 🇧🇷
Bring the flavors of Brazil’s coastal cuisine to your table—a dish that blends Indigenous, African, and Portuguese influences. Perfect for celebrating or trying something new!
6. Perfect for Leftovers (If There Are Any!) ♻️
The stew tastes even better the next day. Reheat and serve with fresh bread or rice for an easy meal
Craving Yet? 😍
Whether you’re a seafood lover, a pumpkin fan, or just seeking a unique, comforting dish, this recipe checks all the boxes. Creamy, fragrant, and unforgettable!
Ready to try it? Let me know how it turns out! 👩🍳
Happy Cooking
Diana
