Brazilian Shrimp Casserole with Dendê Rice, Roasted Zucchini and Crispy Cassava Crumble

Instructions

1. 1

   1. Preheat the oven to 220°C / 425°F. In a bowl, combine the shrimp with the lime juice, half of the minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Let marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the rest.

2. 2

   2. Place the white rice and water in a medium saucepan with a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until tender. Turn off the heat, stir in 1 tablespoon dendê oil, fluff with a fork, and keep covered.

3. 3

   3. On a baking tray, toss the zucchini with 1 tablespoon olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a little black pepper. Roast at 220°C / 425°F for 18 to 20 minutes, stirring once, until tender and browned at the edges.

4. 4

   4. While the zucchini roasts, heat a wide skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and half of the chopped onion. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the cassava flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 4 to 5 minutes until golden and crisp. Add 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, mix, and set the crumble aside.

5. 5

   5. In the same wide skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil with the remaining 1 tablespoon dendê oil over medium heat. Add the rest of the onion and cook for 3 minutes. Add the red bell pepper and the remaining garlic; cook 2 minutes more.

6. 6

   6. Add the sweet paprika, red pepper flakes if using, and the crushed tomato. Cook for 4 minutes to concentrate the flavor. Pour in the coconut milk, add 1/2 teaspoon salt, and simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. 7

   7. Raise the heat slightly to medium-high, add the shrimp with their marinade, and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, just until pink and juicy. Turn off the heat and stir in most of the remaining cilantro.

8. 8

   8. To serve, spoon the dendê rice onto each plate. Top with the shrimp casserole, add the roasted zucchini on the side, and finish with the crispy cassava crumble and the rest of the fresh cilantro.

9. 9

   9. Taste and adjust with more salt, black pepper, or a few extra drops of lime juice just before serving.